Using a humidifier can bring a range of health benefits, both for those with lung conditions and for the general population. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the benefits of using a humidifier and how it can improve your overall health and well-being.
1. Moistens dry air:
Dry air can be harsh on the respiratory system, causing irritation, inflammation, and an increased risk of respiratory infections. By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier can help to reduce these effects and make it easier to breathe.
2. Alleviates symptoms of lung conditions:
For those with lung conditions such as asthma and COPD, a humidifier can help to alleviate symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. The moist air can help to reduce inflammation and make it easier to breathe.
3. Promotes sleep:
Dry air can make it difficult to sleep, as it can cause nasal congestion and dry out your throat. Using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and make it easier to sleep, particularly if you use a cool mist humidifier.
4. Helps to relieve dry skin and eyes:
Dry air can also cause dry skin and eyes, as it can remove moisture from the skin and eyes. Using a humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and alleviate these symptoms.
5. Reduces the risk of respiratory infections:
Dry air can increase the risk of respiratory infections, such as the common cold and flu. By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier can help to reduce this risk and keep your respiratory system healthy.
Types of Humidifiers:
If you are shopping for your first humidifier or upgrading your current model, it is important to understand the different types. Humidifiers come in four main styles–evaporative, impeller, ultrasonic and vaporizer (also known as a warm mist humidifier). Each has a different way of producing and pushing hot or cold moisture into the air. Which one you choose depends on your own space and needs.
In conclusion, using a humidifier can bring a range of health benefits, from reducing irritation and inflammation in the respiratory system to promoting sleep and relieving dry skin and eyes. By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier can help to improve your overall health and well-being. Remember to always consult with your doctor if you have any concerns about your health.
Receive educational tools, breathing techniques, and exercise training tailored to your respiratory condition on the iMaster Health Online Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program. Sign up today and enjoy a 7 DAY FREE TRIAL!
Pulmonary rehabilitation helps ease respiratory symptoms, improve physical and psychological well-being, and increase disease management. Please discuss your decision to begin online pulmonary rehabilitation with a doctor or health care provider.
If you have been cleared by a doctor or health care professional to participate in unsupervised exercise training, please visit your program information under the settings menu tab. You will have to cancel your current program and create a new account under ‘Join For Free’ on the main website. Please complete the screening process and select the Exercise + Breathe + Learn + Move plan. You will then have access to your personalized exercise plan!
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Breathing Exercise Precautions:
Do not begin the breathing exercises if you have:
Recently had an exacerbation and are unstable
A fever, infection or nausea
Unusual shortness of breath or difficulty breathing while resting
Chest pain or palpitations (“fluttering” of the heart in the chest)
New swelling in your legs and/or ankles
Dizziness / light-headedness
Too much fatigue
Unusual fluid volume when wheezing or coughing
Use the Borg Dyspnea / Breathlessness Scale to gauge your exercise intensity
Pre-Exercise Health Check:
Do not begin any exercises / stop exercising immediately if you have/develop:
An exacerbation (if so, immediately activate your action plan) or you are unstable from a recent exacerbation
A fever, infection or feel nauseated
Dizziness / light-headedness
Shortness of breath more than normal
Chest discomfort or chest pain
Cool, clammy skin
You are wheezing or coughing up more fluids than usual
Excessive fatigue
Irregular heartbeat
New swelling in your legs/ankles
Any symptoms you consider an emergency
Increase weight
Increase weight or consider attending a fitness facility
Increase breaks
Remember to increase the number of breaks you take during each exercise