As the weather starts to turn colder, many of us will be turning on the heat in our homes. The dry air caused by heating systems (especially forced-air heating systems--the most common type of heating system in the United States) can bring on a number of problems for allergy sufferers. Dry air can irritate nasal passageways and lead to sinus infections or sinusitis. Dry air increases mucus production which can pose dangers for asthmatic individuals.

Making sure the air in your home maintains the proper level of humidity is one of the best ways to alleviate these concerns. Humidifiers introduce moisture to dry air and create an environment that’s healthier for allergy sufferers.

Those who suffer from chronic sinusitis or frequent sinus infections know that even a small amount of time spent in dry air can create symptoms such as irritated nasal membranes and sinus headaches. Even if you do not suffer regularly sinus problems, allergy sufferers are more likely than those without allergies to develop sinus problems.

Environmental control is an excellent way to hold off recurring sinus problems and to prevent sinus problems from occurring in the first place. The Mayo Clinic states that the goal of treating chronic sinusitis is to “reduce sinus inflammation, keep your nasal passages draining, eliminate the underlying cause, and reduce the number of sinus flare-ups you have.”

Humidifiers are helpful in each of these areas. In fact, the Mayo Clinic goes on to suggest humidification as a method of prevention for both chronic and acute sinusitis: “Use a humidifier. If the air in your home is dry or if you have forced hot air heat, adding moisture to the air may help prevent sinusitis.”

The best health effect of healthy sinuses is that the nasal passages’ normal function of flushing away allergens remains unhindered. Moist mucous membranes, as opposed to those that are irritated from too dry indoor air, allow your nose to properly expel dirt, bacteria, and other particles.