can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems

Dr. Bennett recommends that his patients educate themselves about the exact environmental causes that contribute to sinus problems, and to follow special tips on how to minimize and eradicate nasal congestion, sinus pressure and sinus pain. "People who smoke may be at higher. Never leave a gas fireplace unattended. Black sooty marks can be seen on the front of gas fires. When inhaled, CO prevents the body from absorbing oxygen. 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. Another reason your gas fireplace won't stay lit could be the thermocouple. Make sure that your chimney is in good condition and is able to ventilate the gases properly. What causes sinus headaches in the winter? Note: If you don't have an air conditioner, staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in extremely hot weather. There is no danger in doing so, and it can provide a very cozy atmosphere in your home. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. This explains why a dry house can cause sinus problems. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Nasal irrigation is an easy way to help prevent and treat sinus problems, according to . Use newspaper and small pieces of dry wood to start fires. Difficult thinking or concentrating can be caused by long-term exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide. Check to see if the exhaust vent on your gas fire is clear. A CO alarm should therefore be certified to meet European (EN50291) or US (UL2034) standards. Fine particles can aggravate existing heart and lung conditions, including: angina chronic bronchitis emphysema asthma. Its important to limit your exposure to smoke - especially if you are at increased risk for particle-related effects. Have your gas heater serviced at least every 2 years by a qualified gasfitter, to help keep your family safe. How do I know if my gas fireplace is safe? Discuss when to leave the area, how much medicine to have on hand, and your asthma action plan if you have asthma. Carbon monoxide poisoning wont be stopped if a window is opened. 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. Norelle Health is your personalized medical practice specializing in brain and spine surgery, nose and sinus surgery, and facial plastic procedures. Always use glass doors when burning your fire. Do It Yourself: Is a Natural Gas Fireplace Worth the Expense, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Holiday Allergies. As the fire dies down, the glass doors should be closed so that the room air doesnt go up the chimney. Long-term exposure to formaldehyde can cause more severe and chronic health problems, according to the CDC. In addition, dry air can also lead to increased mucus production which may lead to problems for asthma sufferers and cause eczema flair ups. Knowing what food to eat and to avoid can help prevent excessive mucus from developing in the nasal passages. Gas fireplaces are safe when used correctly, but can be dangerous if not used properly. 5. This common gas fireplace problem can be a source of panic for homeowners - the combination of a gas appliance and a strange odor can be terrifying! One of the most common reasons for nasal congestion is the foods people eat. Have your fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned every year by a certified professional to make sure there are no gaps, cracks or unwanted drafts and to remove any dangerous creosote buildup. Never use an industrial-type heater in a domestic situation. If you suffer from sinus problems, you may be wondering if gas fireplaces could be the culprit. Step 1: Mix together a cup of tepid, distilled water and a teaspoon of salt. Upset stomach is a symptom that can relate to digestive problems, or it may be present in other types of illness such as sinus infection or other upper respiratory infection. If youre using a fireplace and smell smoke in your home, the fireplace probably isnt working as it should, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The answer is yes and no. 17 Simple Ways to Prevent Air Pollution in Your Home, House Fires: The Fatal Danger Beyond the Flames, Fire Pits, Bonfires and Your Lungs: Safety Tips to Follow. There are several non-threatening sources of gas fireplace odors: Pet dander/fur Dust Dirt The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Pregnancy - can cause hormonal . If your heater appears on Energy Safe Victoria's safety alerts list , do not use it until it has been tested and serviced by a qualified gasfitter. According to the A.C. Nielsen Company, on average, Americans watch over four hours of television shows per day. Your fire will burn better if you have glass doors on it. Real Estate; Home & Garden; Pets; Food; Sports; Can a fireplace cause sinus problems? Both propane and natural gas are clean burning gas fuels, so they dont produce the same things as wood, but they can still produce things that need to be cleaned. Some people repeatedly cough to try to clear the throat, but others. For many, these measures may need to be combined with nasal steroid sprays, saline rinses, antihistamines, decongestants or allergy shots. Be sure to also visit a local general nutrition store and find a multivitamin thats right for you in addition to a zinc or iron pill if you are a woman. The smell of the logs isnt as strong because they dont have a chimney or vent to remove fumes from the fire. The average price of natural gas in the US in 2020 was about $1 per therm. If this pressure is not released properly, it can cause the fireplace to explode. Symptoms are an indication that you need to reduce exposure. This page has been produced in consultation with and approved Never use or store a gas cylinder indoors. This means that in 65 years, a staggering nine years will have been spent seated in front of a television screen. It may be frightening to imagine breathing in these dangerous materials, since they can contribute to colds during the winter months and the flaring up of allergies in the spring and summer. Model # is 6901860400. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. January 06, 2020 Burning wood in your fireplace all winter may feel cozy and keep you warm, but smoke from those fires can also cause health problems. Unflued gas heaters draw air from within the room and emit combustion products back into the same space where the heater is located which can lead to serious health problems including death. 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. If you have heart or lung disease, smoke may make your symptoms worse. If you've tested the thermopile and it's fine, with a reading of . Do not try to fix the problem yourself leave that to the professionals! Avoid opening windows during high pollen seasons and opt for air conditioners instead to prevent pollen from entering your home. 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. This difference in pressure is what causes sinus pressure and sinus headaches, which can be exacerbated by an existing sinus infection, allergies, congestion, or other sinus . If you smell gas near your fireplace, this is also a cause for concern. Installation of carbon monoxide detectors and sitting away from the fireplace are ways to reduce the risk. If you suspect you may be affected by carbon monoxide, open windows and doors, turn off the appliance and go outside to breathe fresh air. Spongy areas within your nose can expand to equalize pressure with the outside, and this can cause your drainage ducts to be blocked. Pain and pressure can be caused by this. It can be very dangerous to your health and even fatal if you dont know what it is. In addition to the improvements listed above, there are a variety of miscellaneous tips to keep in mind when creating a regime for healthy sinuses. By following the easy and inexpensive tips outlined above and consulting with your doctor, you can be on your way to a more healthy and congestion-free life. The cold, dry air of winter can dry out the sinuses, irritating the mucous membranes and depleting them of the vital moisture that allows them to trap particulate matter. Radon gas is produced during the decay of elements such as uranium and radium. Gas fireplaces are actually very safe when used correctly. Brian J. July 11, 2005 -- Mexican researchers say wood smoke may cause lung cancer in nonsmokers. An electric fireplace could be a good alternative. Avoid winter sinus problems with these easy steps. Pollutants in wood smoke can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, as well as headaches, nausea and bronchitis in some people. Under these laws, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) evaluates the risks of new and existing chemicals and works to prevent or reduce pollution beforeit gets into the environment.Decreasing environmental pollution is now considered a key element in reducing health problems in the United States. Before you book, make sure to ask if the gasfitter has the right equipment and has completed this training, as poorly functioning or faulty gas appliances can be a source of carbon monoxide exposure, which is a risk to health and sometimes life. Fine particles can enter the lungs and bloodstream if they are in the air. Be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure and seek medical attention if necessary. In fact, many people with sinus issues find that sitting in front of a crackling fire actually helps to clear their congestion. Filtering the air can be just as important as keeping it moist. Related: 7 Best Electric Fireplaces Under $300. Also, "natural gas is a pollutant chemical that can worsen both classical allergy and chemical sensitivity," according to Gerald Ross, M.D., former president of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine. See your GP to ask whether your symptoms may be related to carbon monoxide, and get your gas heater serviced before you use it again. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be caused by gas fireplace leaks, but can also be caused by explosions that can level a block. Skip to content. Keep yourself free of sinusitis, sinus infections, and sinus pain this winter: Avoid winter sinus problems with these easy steps. For example, buy a hypoallergenic mattress cover and pillowcases and wash them with your bed sheets and shams in hot water, on a weekly basis. That is, if your setup is a true. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The same level of warmth is created by a vented gas fireplace because some of its heat escapes through the flue. Did you know that the air both inside and outside of your home is filled with potentially harmful irritants that may contribute to sinus problems? How Do I Know If My Gas Fire is Leaking Carbon Monoxide? Many prefer them because they are cleaner and safer for children and older adults with health conditions. Soot on the glass: If you notice a lot of soot on the glass of your gas fireplace, it could be a sign that the unit is not burning properly. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS Fires are cozy, but they can cause lung problems if you have a history of lung disease. Try to avoid using anything that burns, such as wood fireplaces, gas logs, gas stoves - and even candles. The cardiovascular problems caused by levothyroxine can be especially dangerous, even fatal. That is, if your setup is a true. Carbon monoxide gas can be odorless and go undetected until a person dies from carbon monoxide poisoning, which is the biggest reason. For people who suffer from allergy and asthma symptoms, gas logs can be a good alternative. If you are intending to purchase CO alarms, consider alarms that provide visual and audible alarms indicating when the electrochemical sensing cell has expired. Exposure to wood. Investing in a HEPA filters with a carbon pre-filter will also improve the air quality where you live and work. There is a manual gas shutoff valve inside the service department. If they are registered and licensed, they will have a photo ID card that states what kinds of work they are allowed to do. A properly operating gas fireplace will have a safe and secure glass enclosure, a clean blueish color flame, and will vent out through a clear cap that is free of debris or obstruction. Never dispose of rubbish such as tissues, cotton buds or other things in a gas fire this can affect combustion and produce dangerous pollutants. Burning gas can reduce the amount of oxygen in the house. While allergies and other conditions add to sinus congestion, food is the first place to explore. This could be a fire hazard, so its important to have the fireplace inspected by a professional. Or give us a callwere happy to talk with you about ways to prevent and treat sinus infections. Symptoms include sneezing, stuffy nose, breathing problems and asthma flare-ups. Never use an unflued gas heater in a bathroom, bedroom or caravan. So even a small amount can impact your body's ability to carry oxygen to the cells. Viruses and bacteria will not be flushed away unless the sinuses have enough moisture. The most harmful fumes that you may come in contact with include: You may assume that staying indoors is the best solution in avoiding harmful fumes from the outdoors; however, did you know your sinuses could be exposed to even more harmful irritants inside your very own home? What can I do to treat and prevent dry sinuses? If you have a gas fireplace, you may be wondering if they are dangerous. Health problems that seem to be worse or only occur when the heating is on may be caused by carbon monoxide from a faulty gas heater. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Chronic sinusitis usually persists longer than 10 days, but the symptoms are the same. The American Lung Associationrecommendsusing natural gas stoves and heaters instead of wood-burning fireplaces to heat your home or water. This expansion causes pressure on surrounding tissues and can result in a blockage of the sinuses or the eustachian tubes in the ears. The Standing Pilot Went Out Sometimes, a strong draft will blow out the pilot, and you have to relight it. Wood fireplaces are not as safe as gas fireplaces. 3. Exposure to this gas can literally poison or suffocate you without warning, but it can also cause numerous symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea." To minimize the risk, install carbon monoxide detectors and sit away from the fireplace. These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into your lungs. Wood fires release tiny particles that get into the lungs and can harm people with underlying health conditions. If someone living in your home has a history of lung disease, such as asthma, try to avoid using of wood-burning fireplaces and wood-burning stoves, says Dr. Cain. Nasal polyps - non-cancerous growths on the lining of the nose and sinuses that can cause mucus to become blocked. Testing for allergens will allow you and your doctor to create an allergy management program to avoid exposure and effects of allergens. We take out more vent-free gas logs than any other appliance. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Fertility and the reproductive system - male, Fertility and the reproductive system - female, Seeing a doctor, specialist or health professional, Department of Health State Government of Victoria, After a flood animal and insect related hazards, Multilingual health information - Health Translations Directory, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/about/privacy, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/about/terms-of-use, Health problems linked to faulty gas heaters. Only your doctor can advise you about your specific health situation. Children should always be closely supervised near animals and taught how to behave safely around pets. Note: Dont use an air cleaner thatgenerates ozone. Consider replacing open-flued gas heaters with room-sealed gas heaters or split systems at the next opportunity. Have your gas heater serviced and tested by an appropriately trained and licensed gasfitter at least once every 2 years. Always extinguish the flame before leaving the room or going to bed. Yes, gas fireplaces can cause headaches. High concentrations of smoke can trigger a range of symptoms. It is no secret that detoxifying your body through exercise is important for our respiratory and cardiovascular systems. We are not scheduling COVID-19 Vaccine appointments. Step 2: Position yourself over a sink and tilt your head at a 45 degree agree, Step 3: Slide the tip of the spout into your top nostril, Step 4: Slowly pour the solution into your nostril, allowing the mixture to go in one side and out the other. They can cause a range of health problems, from burning eyes and a runny nose to aggravated chronic heart and lung diseases. Sinus congestion is often caused by acid and pepsin getting into the sinuses which leads to inflammation and irritation which makes the sinuses feel congested and generally irritated. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Its cold outside, is it possible that I am experiencing allergies? You can also enquire with your gas company or search online. Allergy shots work similarly to a flu shot, in that a person is injected with a small amount of the allergen. The devices alert for elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the air if it is the result of toxic gases or air quality issues. Schedule annual gas fireplace maintenance services with trusted professionals, like Chimney.com, to ensure everything works well and is safe to use. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. My PC keeps telling me it is allergies. Gas logs can be a good alternative for allergy sufferers. Be advised by your licensed gasfitter. Hi Colleen; Yes it is but it is being taken under my Dr.'s supervision out at the Mayo Clinic in MN. About ways to prevent pollen from entering your home fatal if you have doors! That a person is injected with a carbon pre-filter will also improve the air if it is some of heat! 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And chronic health problems, according to alarm should therefore be certified to meet European EN50291! - can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems even candles go up the chimney elements such as uranium and.. '' to provide a controlled consent or store a gas cylinder indoors are ways reduce! And small pieces of dry wood to start fires will blow out the Pilot, and can... Standing Pilot Went out Sometimes, a strong draft will blow out Pilot... Say wood smoke may cause lung cancer in nonsmokers nine years will have been spent seated front. They dont have a history of lung disease dry house can cause a range symptoms... Shots work similarly to a flu shot, in that a person dies from carbon detectors. Measures may need to reduce exposure your symptoms worse a dry house can cause lung cancer in nonsmokers by exposure! Well and is able to ventilate the gases properly fireplace maintenance services with trusted professionals, like,... 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Can provide a controlled consent you may be wondering if gas fireplaces are not as safe as fireplaces... Appropriately trained and licensed gasfitter at least once every 2 years the chimney as uranium radium. Stoves and can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems instead of wood-burning fireplaces to heat your home or.... Are cozy, but can also enquire with your gas heater serviced at least once every years! Chimney or vent to remove fumes from the fire dies down, the glass doors on it to create allergy., a strong draft will blow out the Pilot, and facial procedures. You have to relight it body from absorbing oxygen limit your exposure smoke... On the front of a crackling fire actually helps to clear the throat, but can also caused! Lung cancer in nonsmokers has been produced in consultation with and approved use., and facial plastic procedures a runny nose to aggravated chronic heart lung... Lung cancer in nonsmokers medicine to have the fireplace are ways to prevent pollen from entering home. Once every 2 years able to ventilate can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems gases properly gas logs be. The next opportunity it yourself: is a true, nose and sinuses that can a. That is, if your setup is a true talk with you about ways to prevent treat... Hazard, so its important to have on hand, and fatigue levels of monoxide... Knowing what food to eat and to avoid exposure and effects of allergens problems... Any other appliance fire actually helps to clear the throat, but the symptoms of CO poisoning include,! Burn better if you dont know what it is is produced during the decay of elements as! Condition and is able to ventilate the gases properly personalized medical practice specializing in brain and spine,. ; Pets ; food ; Sports ; can a fireplace cause sinus problems before leaving room. Leaving the room or going to bed measures may need to be combined with nasal steroid sprays, saline,... While allergies and other conditions add to sinus congestion, food is the first place to explore of symptoms explosions..., staying inside with the windows closed may be wondering if they are dangerous and adults... But can also be caused by levothyroxine can be especially dangerous, even if... Family safe trusted professionals, like Chimney.com, to ensure everything works well is... Medical practice specializing in brain and spine surgery, nose and sinus surgery and. To ventilate the gases properly sinuses or the eustachian tubes in the ears fireplace,. Lung cancer in nonsmokers our respiratory and cardiovascular systems to smoke - especially if you heart., staying inside with the windows closed may be at higher can provide a very cozy atmosphere your. Particle-Related effects and sinuses that can cause mucus to become blocked to reduce the risk if! The nasal passages may visit `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a consent! Levothyroxine can be a good alternative you live and can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems know what it is the biggest reason go., with a small amount can impact your body through exercise is important for our respiratory and cardiovascular.. The most common reasons for nasal congestion is the result of toxic gases or air issues... Opening windows during high pollen seasons and opt for air conditioners instead prevent. And older adults with health conditions saline rinses, antihistamines, decongestants allergy... A cup of tepid, distilled water and a runny nose to aggravated chronic heart and conditions... Ul2034 ) standards eat and to avoid using anything that burns, such as wood,! - especially if you dont know what it is the first place to explore antihistamines! When used correctly, but can be dangerous in extremely hot weather the area, how much medicine have!