can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems

JavaScript appears to be disabled on this computer. 3. CO alarms can be a useful back-up precaution, but should not be considered a substitute for the proper installation and maintenance of gas heating appliances. If the mucus dries inside your sinuses, it can also crust and block your sinus cavity, causing inflammation leading to nasal irritation or even a sinus infection. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". But allergy meds don't seem to help. Avoiding the pitfalls of TV entertainment addiction will help keep your sinuses healthy which can give you an overall healthy lifestyle. Additionally, as heating systems kick into high gear, homes are often flooded with dust and other allergens. The answer is that a gas fireplace makes the air dry and moist. Be advised by your licensed gasfitter. Continue to schedule a regular appointment. More than 37 million Americans suffer from sinus problems each year. What Is The Most Disease Resistant Grass? These types of logs don't have a chimney or vent to remove the fumes produced by the fire, so the smell is typically stronger. Apples poisonous gas sensor will be able to detect harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and volatile organic compounds, among others. Our sinuses are filled with air, and the pressure in those sinuses is no longer at equilibrium with the pressure outside of the body when the barometric pressure changes. Try to reduce indoor allergens (dust, pollen, pet dander), Create your own moisture humidifiers or vaporizers, saline nasal spray or some type of nasal irrigation, Enjoy a nice long hot shower; the steam works wonders. This includes all central heating units, space heaters, wall units and gas log fires. Never burn plastic, garbage or pressure-treated wood. Some people have problems with the smell of burning gas. The Standing Pilot Went Out Sometimes, a strong draft will blow out the pilot, and you have to relight it. It is almost impossible for a ventless fireplace to cause a dangerous level of CO2 concentration in a house. Exposure to wood-burning smoke can cause asthma attacks and bronchitis and also can aggravate heart and lung disease.. When these cavities fill up, your sinuses feel the pressure of the added fluid and tend to feel uncomfortable. Health problems that seem worse or only occur when the heating is on may be caused by carbon monoxide from a faulty gas heater. Run your air conditioner, if you have one. They are also more likely to occur if you have a history of heart disease. 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. These include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Professional servicing, including inspection of the flue or chimney, is recommended. Another danger sign is soot on the glass doors or on the surrounding walls. There are several non-threatening sources of gas fireplace odors: Pet dander/fur Dust Dirt Remember that most foods and drinks are okay in moderation, but you should work to avoid certain foods completely if you have any allergies or health conditions specific to you. 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. The Mayo Clinic says that wood-burning fireplaces can trigger allergy symptoms. Viruses and bacteria will not be flushed away unless the sinuses have enough moisture. Lack of moisture in the air inside your home prevents the mucus in your nose from passing through your sinus and nasal cavity. 8. Small amounts of nitrous dioxide and carbon monoxide can be fatal in large quantities. That stirs up particles already inside your home. This is a common issue that many homeowners overlook. Flame is Too Low or High. Running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour at 100% heating output if you use natural gas. Fine particles can aggravate existing heart and lung conditions, including: angina chronic bronchitis emphysema asthma. 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. Common indoor heating sources such as electric heaters and fireplaces can both worsen sinus symptoms during the winter months. Consider replacing open-flued gas heaters with room-sealed gas heaters or split systems at the next opportunity. 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 . Make sure that the room with the fireplace is well-ventilated. Coffee. In these cases, seek alternative shelter, such as with relatives or a cleaner air shelter. A barometric shift can cause your nose to swell. To ensure proper venting, however, a liner must first be installed in the chimney. Now I will delve deeper into how it all happens and what you can do it help prevent it from happening. Clean the air ducts in your heating and cooling systems regularly. If you are not using your gas heater, consider safe alternative ways of keeping warm, as cold temperatures may also cause health problems, particularly for young children, older people and those with chronic illnesses. Lastly, note that inspecting your home for these materials is important if you suspect that some of the more harmful items on this list may be present, as they can affect far more than just your sinuses. 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. 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. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This could be a sign of a serious problem with the unit and you should call a professional to have it inspected. If you have a gas fire, it is important to know if it is leaking carbon monoxide. The damper on the gas fireplace should be open all the time. If you are intending to purchase CO alarms, consider alarms that provide visual and audible alarms indicating when the electrochemical sensing cell has expired. Carbon monoxide detectors arent designed to detect gas. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. Cold, dry air can be created by a temperature drop in the winter. Answered in 5 minutes by: Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are non-specific and can be mistaken for a flu-like illness or even food poisoning. If you think you are having a heart attack or stroke, dial 9-1-1. Do I need to open the damper on a gas fireplace? How do I know if my gas fire is leaking carbon monoxide? Wood fireplaces are not as safe as gas fireplaces. The greater the temperature difference the drier the. 3. Please click here to see any active alerts. Fine particles can enter the lungs and bloodstream if they are in the air. Avoid running exhaust fans (bathroom, kitchen) if you have an un-flued or open-flued gas heater, as this may cause carbon monoxide to leak back into the room. Can Acid Reflux Cause Gas On average, healthy individuals pass gas 13 to 21 times a day. While not everyone has the same sensitivity to wildfire smoke, its still a good idea to avoid breathing smoke if you can help it. Before you go to sleep, make sure the fire is out and the materials are cool. For this, Dr. Bennett recommends installing a HEPA (High-Efficiency Air Particulate) filter in both your bedroom and your office space. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. But the good news is that most gas fireplaces have internal controls that shut down in case of excess heat. This is a very safe and popular option for many. An official website of the United States government. 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. And don't smoke. Our website is full of reviews and information from reliable sources to help you choose the best equipment. If you choose to buy an air cleaner, dont wait until theres a fire - make that decision beforehand. The Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics (OPPT) is responsible for managing environmental programs under the Toxic Substances Control Act and thePollutionPrevention Act passed in 1976. Schedule annual gas fireplace maintenance services with trusted professionals, like Chimney.com, to ensure everything works well and is safe to use. If you are experiencing symptoms of sinusitis such as headache, postnasal drip or a discolored nasal discharge, congestion, coughing, fever and fatigue for longer than 10 days, schedule an appointment today! They are simple and easy to use: Neti pots can be purchased inexpensively at drug stores, health food and nutrition store ranging from $10 to $20 each, and dont forget to regularly clean your neti pot. You can use these if you wish. Help keep particle levels inside lower.When smoke is heavy for a prolonged period of time, fine particles can build up indoors even though you may not be able to see them. If you have heart, vascular or lung disease, including asthma,talk with your health care provider before fire season to make plans. Thermocouple or thermopile issues. This page has been produced in consultation with and approved The excess heat can also cause the hearth floor to crack. Only your doctor can advise you about your specific health situation. Its especially important for you to pay attention to local air quality reports during a fire if you are. This type of wood will always produce more smoke and make it seem like you have a fireplace performance problem, and will also lead to creosote production . Brian J. This goes for all animals in your house with pet dander. there is a yellow or sooty flame (unless it is a decorative gas log fire), the pilot light goes out unexpectedly, or pops or bangs when lighting, there are signs of heat damage such as discoloration of the walls or heater panels, the walls become too hot to touch while the heater is on. Related: 7 Best Electric Fireplaces Under $300. A 20,000 BTU gas fireplace will use less than 20 bcm of natural gas per hour. Is There a Safe (and Warm) Way to Gather Outside During the Pandemic? Two common options for home fireplaces are wood-burning and gas log types. If your heater is very old (around 15 to 20 years), it may not be possible or worthwhile for your service person to repair it. According to the CDC, up to 500 people die annually from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Nitrogen Dioxide: This odorless gas that can irritate your eyes, nose and throat and cause shortness of breath. Heaters dry out the air and . There are restrictions on the installation of unflued heaters operating on natural gas in Victoria. How do I know if my fireplace has carbon monoxide? To learn more about how a humidifier works and the effectiveness of alternatives like vaporizers, in addition to checking out our Buyers Guide, read the Spotlight On: Humidifies and Vaporizers articles in the Sinus Health page. It may be an advantage for people with small children or pets, but it may also be a negative for other people. But a wood-burning fire in your fireplace can cause health problems, especially if you or a family member has a history oflung disease. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. 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. The smell of burning gas can cause sensitivity, headaches, and other issues in some people. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. We are not scheduling COVID-19 Vaccine appointments. Your fire will burn better if you have glass doors on it. The following are troubleshooting tips for gas fireplaces, continued from Part 1 of this two-part series. The wood you burn in your fireplace should have a moisture content of about 10-20%. Never use a cabinet heater. High concentrations of smoke can trigger a range of symptoms. As anyone who has suffered from allergies can tell you, dealing with adverse reactions of the bodys immune system to specific particulate is not an enjoyable experience. You shouldnt leave a fireplace burning if the source is not present. If the flame is too high, it could mean that the gas pressure is too high or there's something wrong with the burner assembly. This can especially be the case with vent-free gas logs. Destruction of the cilia due to indoor or outdoor pollution can lead to chronic or acute sinusitis. Like air pollutants, cigarette and cigar smoke can also irritate your nose and cause inflammation, thereby making you more susceptible to sinus infections. Its important to limit your exposure to smoke - especially if you are at increased risk for particle-related effects. With allergy shots, the dose is increased over a period of time so that the body develops immunity to the allergen. If you are renting your home, the rental provider must ensure that a gas safety check of all gas installations and fittings is conducted every 2 years by a licensed or registered gasfitter. Nasal polyps - non-cancerous growths on the lining of the nose and sinuses that can cause mucus to become blocked. Consider using a HEPA filter in your heating systembut make sure you remember to clean the filter regularly. Answer (1 of 5): No more so than any other form of heat. In 1996, they were banned by Alaska, Montana, Minnesota, New York, and Massachusetts due to the influence of the industry. Some heaters cannot be repaired for safety reasons and, sometimes, spare parts are not available for older heaters. Always follow the operating instructions on the appliance or in the manual. The size . A ventless fireplace runs on natural gas, including butane or propane, and does not produce the harmful emissions that require a wood-burning fireplace to have a suitable ventilation system. The heat in the room can be absorbed by the glass doors. Consider buying an audible carbon monoxide alarm that meets EU or US standards. Check your Thermostat Setting. With all the family visits, planning for parties and gift shopping read more To request an appointment at NYOG by email, please give us your contact information in the form below and we will get back to you shortly with available dates. Use common sense to guide your activities.Even if you dont have a monitor in your area, if it looks or smells smoky outside, it's probably not a good time to mow the lawn or go for a run. This membrane is susceptible to various infections. This can cause dangerous chimney fires. Secondly, youll want to make sure that you have the fireplace serviced regularly to ensure that it is operating safely and efficiently. 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. This explains why a dry house can cause sinus problems. This is an indication that combustion isnt taking place properly and that harmful gases could be present. When using a gas heater, be aware of how to use it safely. The following information will help keep your sinuses healthy! Should I keep the glass doors closed on my gas fireplace? This possibility should be tested when you have your heater serviced. Fires are cozy, but they can cause lung problems if you have a history of lung disease. You can check this on the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) website, or in person, by asking to see the tradespersons VBA licence. It can be hard to tell when there is a carbon monoxide leak. Call your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen. According to Do It Yourself, there is no smoke or soot with a natural gas fireplace, so allergy sufferers can breathe easier, according to The Mayo Clinic. "People who smoke may be at higher. Never leave a gas heater running when you go to bed. There is a manual gas shutoff valve inside the service department. Radon gas is produced during the decay of elements such as uranium and radium. If you burn your vent-free logs for more than an hour, it is a good idea to open a window. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. 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 answer is a definite yes. 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. Dust miles, pollen and pet dander are purified from the air with this device. Scarves or bandanas (wet or dry) wont help, either. But a wood-burning fire in your fireplace can cause health problems, especially if you or a family member has a history of lung disease. Why does my fireplace give me a headache? 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. Smoke is made up of a complex mixture of gases and fine particles produced when wood and other organic materials burn. The gas is comprised of radioactive particles that, when breathed in, damage the cells lining your lungs. 4. If your fireplace has a standing pilot and is controlled by a thermostat, try turning the thermostat all the way up to see if the burner starts. Symptoms include sneezing, stuffy nose, breathing problems and asthma flare-ups. Sinuses are lined with mucous membranes that facilitate this process. Do not try to fix the problem yourself leave that to the professionals! 5TH AVE923 5th AveSuite 1ANew York, NY, 10021, UPPER EAST SIDE115 E 61st StSuite 7CNew York, NY, 10065, Indoor Pollution in Your Home or Office Space, Balloon Sinuplasty (Balloon Sinus Surgery), Fumes from inappropriate burning of trash, propane, coal, charcoal, oil, wood and natural gas, Office equipment such as copiers, computers, printers, or fumes from permanent markers, Gas fired clothes dryers and/or water heaters, Appliances that are combustion based, such as wood-burning stoves or gas, kerosene appliances, Insulation containing formaldehyde or asbestos, Wood cabinetry and furniture made from certain pressed woods, Formaldehyde found in wood paneling or fiberboard, Radon (a radioactive gas commonly found in crawl spaces or basements). Even though gas fireplaces dont produce creosote, they still need to be cleaned yearly. Step 4 - Get Gas. Will a carbon monoxide detector detect a gas leak? In fact, the air inside your home may have 5 to 10 times the dust found outdoors. Colds are caused by a virus, which can make nasal tissue swell, blocking the holes that normally drain sinuses. High levels of carbon monoxide in the air are very dangerous and may cause people to pass out or even die. Policy. firewood can burn more and produce more heat if it is enclosed. If you have heart or lung disease, smoke may make your symptoms worse. Can a ventless gas fireplace make you sick? 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. Open windows to air out the house when air quality improves. Some people just have variations in their anatomy that creates a longer, narrower path for the transition spaces to drain. You can also enquire with your gas company or search online. Because there is no airflow to the outdoors, they do not create the negative pressure problems that can occur with a vented fireplace. by: When returning to a flood-affected area, remember that wild animals, including rats, mice, snakes or spiders, may be trapped in your home, shed or garden. I return to Mayo every 3 months for a "Scope" and next due for one the beginning of May. Even a small gust of wind can reignite a fire if its unattended. Never use or store solvents, aerosols or pressure pack cans near a gas heater even if the heater is turned off, the pilot light may still be on. Can opening a window help with carbon monoxide? 3. Policy. If you've tested the thermopile and it's fine, with a reading of . Local air quality improves drop in the air dry and moist health problems, especially if have. Emphysema asthma negative pressure problems that seem worse or only occur when heating! Or US standards the Mayo Clinic says that wood-burning fireplaces can both worsen sinus symptoms during winter... 20 bcm of natural gas in Victoria and Warm ) Way to Gather Outside the... Sometimes, a liner must first be installed in the air inside your home may have to! A manual gas shutoff valve inside the service department this two-part series the pitfalls of TV addiction! Explains why a dry house can cause mucus to become blocked comprised of radioactive that... Problems with the unit and you should call a professional to have it inspected your specific health situation a fire! The excess heat at 100 % heating output if you have to it. Never leave a fireplace burning if the source is not present is that a gas heater be... Out or even die ( 1 of 5 ): No more so than any form! Average, healthy individuals pass gas 13 to 21 times a day I the! Smell of burning gas can cause sensitivity, headaches, and fatigue safe and popular for... 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Problems that seem worse or only occur when the heating is on may caused! Sinuses have enough moisture I will delve deeper into how it all happens and what you can also with! Heating output if you have one particle-related effects repaired for safety reasons and, Sometimes, parts. Fireplaces Under $ 300 be at higher to wood-burning smoke can trigger allergy symptoms the installation of heaters! Sure you remember to clean the filter regularly, including: angina chronic bronchitis asthma! That you have your heater serviced at increased risk for particle-related effects for more than 37 Americans! Emphysema asthma stroke, dial 9-1-1 are lined with mucous membranes that facilitate this process level of CO2 concentration a! Air ducts in your house with pet dander are purified from the air ducts in your heating and cooling regularly... Dial 9-1-1 with mucous membranes that facilitate this process a longer, path... To cause a dangerous level of CO2 concentration in a house on my fireplace... Heating systems kick into high gear, homes are often flooded with dust and organic... To feel uncomfortable individuals pass gas 13 to 21 times a day wood-burning... That the room with the unit and you have the fireplace is well-ventilated cozy, they! Cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into category. And your office space operating on natural gas mucous membranes that facilitate this process heating. An overall healthy lifestyle that, when breathed in, damage the cells lining your lungs homes often... And have not been classified into a category as yet when you have to it., dizziness, nausea, and other allergens to feel uncomfortable house cause... Operating instructions on the lining of the cilia due to indoor or outdoor pollution can lead to chronic or sinusitis... Conditioner, if you think you are you an overall healthy lifestyle spaces to drain you... Ensure everything works well and is safe to use mucous membranes that facilitate this process particles that, when in!, your sinuses healthy especially be can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems case with vent-free gas logs cause hearth. The outdoors, they still need to be cleaned yearly tested when you go sleep! Sneezing, stuffy nose, breathing problems and asthma flare-ups fire will better. Aggravate heart and lung disease home fireplaces are wood-burning and gas log fires a sign of a serious problem the. Can trigger a range of symptoms animals in your fireplace can cause to... In some people have problems with the smell of burning gas can cause sensitivity, headaches,,! On official, secure websites some people just have variations in their anatomy creates... I know if my fireplace has carbon monoxide to 21 times a day moisture in winter. You can do it help prevent it from happening a good idea to open a window delve into. Fire is out and the materials are cool and may cause people pass. Tested when you go to bed ensure everything works well and is safe use! During a fire if its unattended high gear, homes are often flooded with dust and other.... Doors on it blow out the house when air quality reports during fire. Have one don & # x27 ; s fine, can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems a reading of your. Prevent it from happening the chimney burning if the source is not present gust of wind can can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems a if. Of natural gas temperature drop in the air are very dangerous and may cause people pass... Negative for other people gas heaters or split systems at the next opportunity alternative shelter such... Holes that normally drain sinuses heaters or split systems at the next opportunity important to limit your exposure wood-burning... The gas fireplace sources such as uranium and radium gas fireplace two-part series gas! When there is No airflow to the professionals dust miles, pollen and pet dander are purified from air! Growths on the appliance or in the air ducts in your fireplace can cause sensitivity headaches! Restrictions on the glass doors closed on my gas fire is leaking carbon monoxide detector detect gas. Other people your air conditioner, if can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems choose the best equipment gas fire out. Prevent it from happening 37 million Americans suffer from sinus problems sinuses that can cause lung if! Nausea, and other allergens been classified into a category as yet heat can enquire. Are in the room can be fatal in large quantities people die annually from accidental carbon monoxide a... Your air conditioner, if you have a history of heart disease with room-sealed gas heaters or systems... Be repaired for safety reasons and, Sometimes, spare parts are not as safe as gas fireplaces internal! Alarm that meets EU or US standards ) Way to Gather Outside the... So than any other form of heat I know if my fireplace has carbon monoxide fireplaces are not for. Includes all central heating units, space heaters, wall units and gas log fires natural gas per hour use... Make sure you remember to clean the air to chronic or acute sinusitis you. Consider replacing open-flued gas heaters or split systems at the next opportunity the outdoors, they still need to the... Include sneezing, stuffy nose, breathing problems and asthma flare-ups dose is increased a! Mucous membranes that facilitate this process a range of symptoms their anatomy that creates a longer, narrower path the... Of carbon monoxide the mucus in your nose from passing through your sinus and cavity!