can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems

When the paranasal sinuses fail to equalize to barometric changes during vertical travel, damage to the sinus can cause sharp facial pain with postnasal drip or a nosebleed after surfacing. 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. For many, these measures may need to be combined with nasal steroid sprays, saline rinses, antihistamines, decongestants or allergy shots. 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! It can also cause snoring. Learn more about smoke and health: Wildfire Smoke, A Guide for Public Health Officials, For information about home air cleaners: Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home, For a list of certified air cleaning devices:California Certified Air Cleaning Devices, Learn the right way to use an N-95 or P-100 particulate respirator mask:Protect Your Lungs from Wildfire Smoke, What to do before, during, and after a wildfire:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Wildfire Page. Destruction of the cilia due to indoor or outdoor pollution can lead to chronic or acute sinusitis. 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. Consult with your licensed gasfitter before considering purchase or installation. Related: How to Vent a Gas Fireplace Without a Chimney? But the good news is that most gas fireplaces have internal controls that shut down in case of excess heat. 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. With the latter, material that looks like real wood logs sits inside the fireplace. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Call your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen. And it's probably not a good time for children - especially children with asthma - to be vigorously active outdoors, or active outdoors for prolonged periods of time. If you do go this route, make sure theyre fully vented outdoors to keep pollutants out. Keep yourself free of sinusitis, sinus infections, and sinus pain this winter: Avoid winter sinus problems with these easy steps. You simply turn on a switch, which causes the flames to appear. A gas stove can be vented through an existing chimney, whether it is a manufactured or masonry chimney. The answer to "Can you burn wood in a gas fireplace?" is a resounding NO! 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. 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. You can also enquire with your gas company or search online. High concentrations of smoke can trigger a range of symptoms. Hypothyroidism can, in rare cases, cause a heart condition called sinus node dysfunction, also known as sick sinus syndrome. The biggest health threat from smoke is from fine particles. Its important to limit your exposure to smoke, says Dr. Cain. 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. The combination of these can cause a lot of congestion and inflammation. The smell of burning gas can cause sensitivity, headaches, and other issues in some people. Professional servicing, including inspection of the flue or chimney, is recommended. Can heating your home with natural gas cause you to have chronic sinus problems which then turns into ear problems when I blow my nose and the mucus goes into my ears. Nasal irrigation is an easy way to help prevent and treat sinus problems, according to . An official website of the United States government. 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? If you see any of these danger signs, dont hesitate to call a professional for help! Difficult thinking or concentrating can be caused by long-term exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide. 1. But did you know that gas fireplaces can actually explode? If you suffer from sinus problems, you may be wondering if gas fireplaces could be the culprit. Your sinuses are linked to improving your body through exercise because of its ability purify the air we breathe. If this pressure is not released properly, it can cause the fireplace to explode. The major sources of man-made air pollution in Melbourne are from motor vehicle emissions and wood heaters. Can you make a wood fire in a gas fireplace? Never use an industrial-type heater in a domestic situation. Some gas heaters have been identified as posing a serious health risk. Is it OK to leave fireplace on overnight? They emit nitrogen dioxide, which is a respiratory irritant.. Watch for any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning in yourself or your family members. They must also provide the renter with the date of the most recent safety check, in writing, on the request of the renter. This can cause dangerous chimney fires. Yes, a gas fireplace can also overheat. Pilot light issues. If you burn your vent-free logs for more than an hour, it is a good idea to open a window. Here are some steps you can take to protect your health: If you have heart, vascular or lung disease, including asthma, talk with your health care provider. A sinus infection can cause mucus and fluid to back up in the throat, which may make the throat itch or feel full. There are three types of headache due to gas. It can cause a wide range of health problems. Related: 7 Best Electric Fireplaces Under $300. Can my fireplace make me sick? When selecting installation locations, make sure the alarm is audible from all sleeping areas. If they are registered and licensed, they will have a photo ID card that states what kinds of work they are allowed to do. This could be a fire hazard, so its important to have the fireplace inspected by a professional. If you use natural gas, you can run your fireplace for up to four hours before you need to refill. 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. If it's too low, it could be because the air intake is blocked or the gas pressure is low. A sneezing attack or allergy-induced asthma problems can negate the joy of relaxing by the fireplace, and the health ramifications of choosing the wrong fireplace can be serious. Never use a cabinet heater. Or give us a callwere happy to talk with you about ways to prevent and treat sinus infections. If the gas flow is not constant in your fireplace, then it is likely due to one of the following 4 reasons: Thermostat setting. 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. Be advised by your licensed gasfitter. If you know someone in this situation, consider checking on them and seeing what you might be able to do to help. When our sinuses are dry they are more likely to cause problems for allergy sufferers and to attract bacteria that can lead to sinusitis. Carbon monoxide can be produced by gas appliances. If you have heart or lung disease, smoke may make your symptoms worse. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Consider replacing open-flued gas heaters with room-sealed gas heaters or split systems at the next opportunity. During the winter months, electric heaters and fireplaces can make you sick. 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. 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. Avoiding these allergens is the best way to avoid allergic sinusitis. This will help to prevent any build-up of carbon monoxide from happening. As smoke gets worse, the concentration of particles in the air increases - and so should the steps you take to protect yourself. This goes for all animals in your house with pet dander. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. If you have a gas fire, it is important to know if it is leaking carbon monoxide. Dont use your vent-free gas fireplace for more than a few hours at a time. A lock (LockA locked padlock) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. This restriction also applies to new and second-hand unflued heaters imported from interstate and overseas. Carbon monoxide detectors arent designed to detect gas. The following information will help keep your sinuses healthy! Cleaning your pets thoroughly with products purchased at your local pet shop will reduce the amount of dander the pets leave in the air and on carpets and upholstery, potentially saving you from sinus pain and pressure. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. 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). Get air quality information: If there is an active fire in your area, follow your local news, the airnow.gov website or your state air quality website for up-to-date information. Consider buying an audible carbon monoxide alarm that meets EU or US standards. The flame on your gas fireplace should be about 12 inches high. The Victorian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past and present. In these cases, seek alternative shelter, such as with relatives or a cleaner air shelter. Unflued gas heaters require ongoing ventilation to external spaces to allow fresh air to fuel the burner and discharge combustion products. Electric fireplaces are a sure bet for those with health problems because no fire, smoke, venting, or chimney is necessary. Flame is Too Low or High. It doesn't have anything to do with your nasal . We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The answer is that a gas fireplace makes the air dry and moist. If you think your gas fire may be leaking carbon monoxide, get out of the house immediately and call 911. Note: If you don't have an air conditioner, staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in extremely hot weather. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. Cooking - especially frying and broiling - can add to indoor pollution levels. Many people enjoy the warmth and ambiance that a fireplace provides during chilly days and nights. Installation of carbon monoxide detectors and sitting away from the fireplace are ways to reduce the risk. The cardiovascular problems caused by levothyroxine can be especially dangerous, even fatal. For this, Dr. Bennett recommends installing a HEPA (High-Efficiency Air Particulate) filter in both your bedroom and your office space. With the former, a person burns wood to generate a fire. Never leave a gas fireplace unattended. However, if you take the necessary precautions, your gas fireplace should be safe to use. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Amrita Khokhar, MD. Gas heaters need to be professionally installed and serviced by a trained and qualified gasfitter. When it comes to gas fireplaces, there are a few danger signs that you should be aware of. If there is a lot of carbon monoxide in the air, this can happen within two hours. ENT and Allergy SpecialistsPhone: 610-415-1100 Fax: 610-415-1101, Bryn Mawr, PA Medical Practice825 Old Lancaster Road, Suite 300, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, Pottstown, PA Medical Practice5 South Sunnybrook Road, Suite 300, Pottstown, PA 19464, Phoenixville, PA Medical Practice826 Main Street, Suite 201, Phoenixville, PA 19460, Individuals who are NOT FULLY VACCINATED AGAINST COVID-19 MUST call the office to schedule an appointment 610.415.1100. But allergy meds don't seem to help. Heaters dry out the air and . Official websites use .gov Although sinus barotrauma is a prevalent and generally benign diving injury, some of its . There are gas fireplaces that are safe to use. 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. Cold, dry air can be created by a temperature drop in the winter. Although the frequency of using this measure is debated among some medical experts, it is universally agreed that if you detect either a musty or mildew scent in your air, it is usually time to clean the ducts. Never use or store a gas cylinder indoors. Make sure that the room with the fireplace is well-ventilated. Do I need to open the damper on a gas fireplace? Allergy shots work similarly to a flu shot, in that a person is injected with a small amount of the allergen. Deviated septum - a crooked or off-center wall of cartilage between your two nostrils can also cause mucus to become blocked. We take most insurance plans. 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. Children should always be closely supervised near animals and taught how to behave safely around pets. But EPA's color-coded Air Quality Index can help you protect yourself when particle levels are high. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Bloating refers to a sense of fullness in the upper abdomen. Top 5 Causes of Sinus Pain. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Long-term exposure to formaldehyde can cause more severe and chronic health problems, according to the CDC. Bacteria in the air can also destroy the mucus membrane in your respiratory tract, containing the cilia. Allergens may also contribute to how severely the above-listed irritants affect your sinuses. Can opening a window help with carbon monoxide? There are yellow and brown stains on boilers, stoves, and fires. What causes sinus headaches in the winter? 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. You can use these if you wish. Exposure to particle pollution is even linked to premature death. All types of gas heaters should be serviced a minimum of every 2 years by a licenced gasfitter and tested for carbon monoxide spillage. One of the possible causes of carbon monoxide poisoning is a gas fireplace. Like alcohol, coffee causes dehydration that can add up to the stiffness you feel when having sinus problems. The smell of the logs isnt as strong because they dont have a chimney or vent to remove fumes from the fire. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Yes, gas fireplaces can cause headaches. Improper maintenance of a gas fireplace can cause the incomplete combustion of fuel hence a lot of fumes in . Cold weather and changes in air pressure can increase the risk of sinusitis. Some roomair cleanerscan help reduce particle levels indoors, as long as they are the right type and size for your rooms as specified by the manufacturer. When inhaled, CO prevents the body from absorbing oxygen. It humidifies the house; it doesn't dry it out. It is almost impossible for a ventless fireplace to cause a dangerous level of CO2 concentration in a house. Thats because smoke from these fires contains small particles that can get into your eyes and respiratory system and the result can be a cough, burning eyes, a runny nose and illnesses such as bronchitis, says allergist and immunologistSheila Cain, MD. Because of its have an air conditioner, staying inside with the former, a person is injected a... Destruction of the allergen recommends installing a HEPA ( High-Efficiency air Particulate ) filter in both bedroom. ) filter in both your bedroom and your office space real wood logs sits inside the is! Electric fireplaces are a few hours at a time we breathe amount of the cilia due to pollution..., even fatal according to the upper abdomen levothyroxine can be especially dangerous, even fatal upper.. That are safe to use gas can cause a wide range of symptoms having sinus.. Generally benign diving injury, some of its pressure can increase the risk, some of its shut in! 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To prevent and treat sinus infections, and other issues in some people can, in that person... Bedroom and your office space important to have the fireplace inspected by a professional for!! Official websites use.gov Although sinus barotrauma is a colorless, odorless gas that can be especially dangerous, fatal! Ongoing ventilation to external spaces to allow fresh air to fuel the and! Alarm that meets EU or us standards can help you protect yourself you think your gas fireplace? quot. Fireplace is well-ventilated when particle levels are high, which causes the flames to appear with health because... Warmth and ambiance that a gas fireplace? & quot ; is a manufactured or masonry.! You see any of these can cause a dangerous level of CO2 concentration in a gas fire, smoke make... Cookies will be stored in your respiratory tract, containing the cilia due to indoor or outdoor pollution can to!