Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. However, despite these regulations, nearly half the U.S. population (154 million people) is exposed to dangerous air toxins on a daily basis. If youre lucky enough to have a gas fireplace in your home, there are a few rules you should follow to keep it running safely and efficiently. In people with asthma, exposure to low levels of NO2 may cause increased bronchial reactivity and make young children more susceptible to respiratory infections. Wood smoke can cause both short- and long-term health problems, including allergic reactions like sneezing and coughing, chronic bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia and emphysema. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are non-specific and can be mistaken for a flu-like illness or even food poisoning. Gas fireplaces, gas stoves and inserts all use sealed combustion technology, which means all combustion air comes from the outside. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. There are gas fireplaces that are safe to use. Many prefer them because they are cleaner and safer for children and older adults with health conditions. Policy. Wood smoke can also contain several toxic substances such as benzene, formaldehyde, acrolein and methane. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Take note of your symptoms, and be sure to contact your . Chest Pain: 3 Signs Its Not a Heart Attack and Possible Causes. For this, Dr. Bennett recommends installing a HEPA (High-Efficiency Air Particulate) filter in both your bedroom and your office space. Get your heating ducts cleaned, and make sure to be away from home for several hours after the cleaning. If you have asthma or another lung disease,make sure you follow your healthcare providers directions about taking your medicines and following your asthma action plan. High levels of carbon monoxide in the air are very dangerous and may cause people to pass out or even die. Should the flue be open on a ventless gas fireplace? Common Health Problems Exposure to natural gas through gas leaks can be harmful. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. Small particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter pose the greatest health problems because they can get deep into the lungs, says Dr. Cain. Make sure that your chimney is in good condition and is able to ventilate the gases properly. This same bacteria can affect more than just the sinuses, but the whole body and cause the common cold along with all of its symptoms. Can opening a window help with carbon monoxide? They work at Mexico's Instituto Nacional . A sinus infection can cause mucus and fluid to back up in the throat, which may make the throat itch or feel full. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. You shouldnt run an unvented fireplace for more than 3 hours at a time. For more information about how HEPA filters prevent sinus problems, whether a HEPA filter is right for you, and a Buyers Guide on selecting the best HEPA without breaking the bank, read the Spotlight On: HEPA Air Filters article under the Sinus Health page. Its especially important for you to pay attention to local air quality reports during a fire if you are. Use a humidifier to combat dry air. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. When it comes to safety, its a good idea to open your windows when you use the fireplace. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation states that the gases created by gas log fireplaces are chemical contaminants. Heaters do not last forever. Remembering to hydrate gets harder as the temperature drops, but it is just as important in winter months. How much carbon monoxide does a ventless fireplace produce? Cutting-edge Treatments for Ear Nose, Throat, and Allergy. In addition, dry air can also lead to increased mucus production which may lead to problems for asthma sufferers and cause eczema flair ups. Gas heaters need to be professionally installed and serviced by a trained and qualified gasfitter. Pay attention to any strange odors coming from your gas fire. The American Lung Associationrecommendsusing natural gas stoves and heaters instead of wood-burning fireplaces to heat your home or water. The most common indoor sinus irritants include: Air containing these elements can be harmful to your sinuses, especially if the air itself is dry. Make sure the thermostat is on and that the current room . Colds are caused by a virus, which can make nasal tissue swell, blocking the holes that normally drain sinuses. This is possible with vent-free gas logs. A lock (LockA locked padlock) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Small gas leaks accumulate over a period of time and add a significant amount of pollutants that stress the immune system and other bodily functions. A gas stove can be vented through an existing chimney, whether it is a manufactured or masonry chimney. With allergy shots, the dose is increased over a period of time so that the body develops immunity to the allergen. Treat with nasal rinses, warm compresses, and antibiotics or allergy medications if needed. Although sinus barotrauma is a prevalent and generally benign diving injury, some of its . There is no standard in Australia that covers the design, manufacture, installation or servicing of CO alarms for domestic premises. Heaters dry out the air and . Yes, a gas fireplace can also overheat. If there is a problem with the homes inhabitants are at risk. Even moderate humiditybetween 35 and 50 percentcan be helpful to the nasal membranes. Although the image of a log fire is often associated with the holidays, romance and cozy nights inside protected from the cold are a threat to lung and heart health. Fine particles can cause a variety of short-term health problems, including: itchy or burning eyes throat irritation runny nose illnesses like bronchitis. An increase in the frequency of sinus infections, membrane damage to your nasal and sinus cavities, and a weakening of your immune system are common results of indoor pollution. Keep the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. Also, the mold that can grow on stored firewood can cause allergic symptoms when the wood is burned. Running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour at 100% heating output if you use natural gas. We take out more vent-free gas logs than any other appliance. However, if you do experience an explosion, be sure to call your local fire department immediately. What states have banned ventless gas fireplaces? Some people are especially sensitive to these irritants, causing an enlargement of the nasal blood vessels, and cells to release inflammatory factors that can trigger inflammation and sinusitis. Since there is no specific level of CO2 concentration that affects everyone, one person may feel light headed. This is because when gas ignites, it creates a lot of heat and pressure. Have your gas heater serviced at least every 2 years by a qualified gasfitter, to help keep your family safe. Skip to content. Also, the mold that can grow on stored firewood can cause allergic symptoms when the wood is burned. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Broker, MD named to Main Line Today Magazines Top Docs for 2017. Sinuses are lined with mucous membranes that facilitate this process. Do you need to open a window when using a gas fireplace? The size . CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious health problems, including death. Wood fireplaces generate smoke and soot, which irritate many people's respiratory passages, including noses and lungs, especially people who already have allergies and asthma. Electric units dont work with gas fireplaces because they have real flames. Some people repeatedly cough to try to clear the throat, but others. Exposure to wood. Exposure to particle pollution is even linked to premature death. Make sure you follow your healthcare providers directions about taking your medicines. However, when the heated and dry air is inhaled, it will harden the mucus and cilia (small hairs lining the sinuses and nose), making your nasal passages parched. The damper on the gas fireplace should be open all the time. Be sure to follow all of the manufacturers instructions when using your fireplace. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. As smoke gets worse, the concentration of particles in the air increases - and so should the steps you take to protect yourself. If you have a gas fireplace, you may be wondering if they are safe. You eliminate the risk of having gas build up or backdraft into your home if you leave the damper open at all times. A neti pot looks similar to a small teapot in appearance, save for an extended spout. Prepare for fire season if you live in a fire-prone area. "People who smoke may be at higher. Related: 7 Best Electric Fireplaces Under $300. Cause Dry or Itchy Skin The mold and mildew circulated throughout the air by dirty air ducts can worsen or lead to skin issues such as eczema, rashes, and hives. There is a lot of condensation at the window. 1. While not everyone has the same sensitivity to wildfire smoke, its still a good idea to avoid breathing smoke if you can help it. Its not safe, why? Let me get right to the point: unvented gas (and kerosene) space heaters and fireplaces are a bad idea.Don't install one. Gas fireplaces can be dangerous if they are not installed properly or if they are not maintained. Will a carbon monoxide detector detect a gas leak? When it comes to gas fireplaces, there are a few danger signs that you should be aware of. The State of Victoria and the Department of Healthshall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Those manufactured after 1992 are significantly cleaner-burning than older models because of federal air quality regulations that went into effect at that time, according to theEPA. Dr. Bennett recommends stationing a humidifier in your bedroom if the air is too dry. Home gas fireplaces can be dangerous if they are not properly installed or maintained. While many people who have chronic sinus infections are glad to be bidding pollen farewell, winter presents its own air quality challenges, leading to a variety of winter sinus problems. It can also cause snoring. 6. This indicates that there is a problem with the gas mixture and that dangerous gases may be present. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Many people use gas logs because they have allergic symptoms when using wood-burning fireplaces. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind in order to prevent any accidents. When these cavities fill up, your sinuses feel the pressure of the added fluid and tend to feel uncomfortable. That is, if your setup is a true. Volatile organic compounds Construction dust and debris Second-hand cigarette smoke Exhaust fumes Household cleaning products Hairspray Pollen Weeds Grasses and pesticides Fumes from inappropriate burning of trash, propane, coal, charcoal, oil, wood and natural gas Pollution can cause sinus irritation Maintain a healthy diet, by remembering to avoid sugar, caffeine, dairy products, and alcohol. #2 A headache that feels like a band is squeezing your entire head. Answered in 5 minutes by: But did you know that gas fireplaces can actually explode? Exercising outdoors in the fresh air is also preferable to exercising inside or at the gym. All types of gas heaters should be serviced a minimum of every 2 years by a licenced gasfitter and tested for carbon monoxide spillage. How do I know if my gas fireplace is safe? Gas fireplaces are safe when used correctly, but can be dangerous if not used properly. The following are troubleshooting tips for gas fireplaces, continued from Part 1 of this two-part series. Lack of moisture in the air inside your home prevents the mucus in your nose from passing through your sinus and nasal cavity. 2. It can cause a wide range of health problems. If the vent is blocked, carbon monoxide could build up inside your home. If your sinus infection is caused by a. Bananas are rich in carbohydrates but when having sinus problems, it is better to avoid this fruit; it can exacerbate the symptoms of sinusitis because it can cause inflammation. They are sold at many hardware and home repair stores and online. The main agent that causes headaches is carbon monoxide. If you have heart, vascular or lung disease, including asthma,talk with your health care provider before fire season to make plans. Consider buying an air cleaner. We take most insurance plans. They do not emit as much exhaust as wood-burning fireplaces and might even be safer than vented gas fireplaces. That just puts more pollution in your home. They emit nitrogen dioxide, which is a respiratory irritant.. If you burn your vent-free logs for more than an hour, it is a good idea to open a window. Bananas. Wood with a higher moisture content is known as "green wood," and is not ideal for fire building. Cold weather and changes in air pressure can increase the risk of sinusitis. Gases properly do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services odorless gas that cause! Need to be professionally installed and serviced by a qualified gasfitter, to help keep your family safe two-part.. Cause a variety of short-term health problems, including death is on that... Irritation runny nose illnesses like bronchitis your sinuses feel the pressure of the added and... Is too dry track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized.. 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