Are Humidifiers Good For Your Health
Humidity describes the relative levels of moisture that exist in the air. The proper level for comfort and health should be between 30% and 60%. Levels that are higher or lower can cause discomfort and even health issues. Installing a portable or whole-house humidifier can correct the humidity levels in your home, and you and your family will benefit from the results.
Respiratory Ailments
A common health issue faced by people who reside in areas of low humidity is an increased prevalence of viruses. Viruses tend to survive longer in dry, cool air, thus explaining why the flu season tends to be worse in the fall and winter seasons.
Overly dry air can also result in a more rapid rate of evaporation when someone sneezes, leaving the virus floating around in the air without the attached moisture to move it down and away. Low humidity levels can cause other respiratory issues such as general discomfort from dry nasal passages or even an increased risk of developing a sinus infection.
Dry Eyes
When your indoor air has low humidity, your eyes can become drier through the increased rate of tear evaporation. Your eyes need a healthy tear film to protect and lubricate them. Not only will your tears be affected through rapid evaporation, but you will also tend to blink more often, an action that will wick away moisture. Eyes that do not have enough tears will feel gritty and irritated and cause a certain degree of discomfort.
Dry Skin
Your skin and lips are directly affected by the relative moisture in the air. When your skin is too dry, it can develop a type of eczema that is dry, scaly, and itchy. Your skin is dry on the surface from a lack of replenishing moisture in the air, and it can also begin to experience small cracks in the protective layers. These breaks in the skin can let in harmful bacteria that may lead to increased infections.
Air Express Air Conditioning & Heating has been providing exceptional cooling and heating services to the Richmond, TX, area for more than 15 years. We are family-owned and locally operated, and our technicians are NATE-certified and well-experienced. To learn more about how we can help you with your indoor air quality, call us today.
