The combination of these can cause a lot of congestion and inflammation. Wood fireplaces are not as safe as gas fireplaces. Gas fireplaces are actually very safe when used correctly. Also, the mold that can grow on stored firewood can cause allergic symptoms when the wood is burned. Can my fireplace make me sick? Gas fireplaces are one of the most common sources of exposure, even though there are many other possibilities. Consider buying an audible carbon monoxide (CO) alarm. This will help contain any sparks and embers that might pop out of the fire. Common indoor heating sources such as electric heaters and fireplaces can both worsen sinus symptoms during the winter months. Gas leaks can be very dangerous and should always be addressed by a professional immediately. 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 these newer appliances are properly installed, well-maintained and used correctly, they can reduce outdoor and indoor air pollution resulting from burning wood and consequently, help reduce risks to your health. Open windows to air out the house when air quality improves. Gas supply problems. The result may be discomfort in the sinus or middle ear during the plane's ascent or descent. There is a manual gas shutoff valve inside the service department. People withheartorlung diseases, diabetes, children and older adults are the most likely to be affected by particle pollution exposure. How Many Gallons Of 32 Nitrogen Are In A Ton? Some people just have variations in their anatomy that creates a longer, narrower path for the transition spaces to drain. Carbon monoxide poisoning wont be stopped if a window is opened. If you smell gas near your fireplace, this is also a cause for concern. The following are troubleshooting tips for gas fireplaces, continued from Part 1 of this two-part series. 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. Use a neti pot regularly to help rid your body of the toxins trapped in the sinuses and to help facilitate proper sinus drainage. That just puts more pollution in your home. Make You Tired, Feel Unwell The Standing Pilot Went Out Sometimes, a strong draft will blow out the pilot, and you have to relight it. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. There is a lot of condensation at the window. Fires are cozy, but they can cause lung problems if you have a history of lung disease. Many homeowners are not aware of the gas. Testing for allergens will allow you and your doctor to create an allergy management program to avoid exposure and effects of allergens. The Mayo Clinic says that wood-burning fireplaces can trigger allergy symptoms. If your unit is getting both power and spark, the next phase of the troubleshooting process involves making sure it's receiving gas. Exposure to this gas can cause a number of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. 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. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious health problems, including death. A neti pot looks similar to a small teapot in appearance, save for an extended spout. To ensure proper venting, however, a liner must first be installed in the chimney. Its not safe, why? Please click here to see any active alerts. Some people repeatedly cough to try to clear the throat, but others. Pay attention to any strange odors coming from your gas fire. Related: How to Vent a Gas Fireplace Without a Chimney? Never leave your gas fireplace unattended while its lit. High levels of carbon monoxide in the air are very dangerous and may cause people to pass out or even die. 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. Step 4 - Get Gas. Gas accumulates in the digestive tract through eating (swallowing air) or bacterial fermentation. If you think you may have been exposed to CO fumes, see a doctor immediately. This membrane is susceptible to various infections. Black sooty marks can be seen on the front of gas fires. 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. Do not try to fix the problem yourself leave that to the professionals! However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you do choose to run your gas fireplace all day. This can affect the lungs and the heart as well. If you have heart, vascular or lung disease, including asthma,talk with your health care provider before fire season to make plans. According to the A.C. Nielsen Company, on average, Americans watch over four hours of television shows per day. Wood burning fireplaces have a higher risk of injury. Your fire will burn better if you have glass doors on it. Installation of carbon monoxide detectors and sitting away from the fireplace are ways to reduce the risk. 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. This goes for all animals in your house with pet dander. Have a several-day supply of nonperishable foods that do not require cooking. 5. 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. This can cause dangerous chimney fires. This is a common issue that many homeowners overlook. Small particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter pose the greatest health problems because they can get deep into the lungs, says Dr. Cain. High concentrations of smoke can trigger a range of symptoms. When our sinuses are dry they are more likely to cause problems for allergy sufferers and to attract bacteria that can lead to sinusitis. Skip to content. 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! 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. Excess heat in gas fireplaces is very dangerous because it can cause cracking of the gas logs and mantel. According to the CDC, up to 500 people die annually from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Most sinus infections start with a cold. This is an indication that combustion isnt taking place properly and that harmful gases could be present. on Mar 29, 2022 Ventless gas fireplaces are heating devices that use natural gas or propane to heat air in a living space. As the fire dies down, the glass doors should be closed so that the room air doesnt go up the chimney. Thermocouple or thermopile issues. 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. Make sure that the room with the fireplace is well-ventilated. 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. Its especially important for you to pay attention to local air quality reports during a fire if you are. causes of acidity: 1.binge eating.2.consuming food stuff like chocolates, fatty food, spicy food, non-vegetarian food and coffee.3.smoking, tobacco chewing, alcohol.4.intake of medicines like aspirin, antibiotics, nsaids.5.stress and depression.6.gerd (gastro oesophageal reflux disease), peptic ulcer etc these all will bring a bloated abdomen and 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. When using a gas heater, be aware of how to use it safely. 9. Can a ventless gas fireplace make you sick? There are gas fireplaces that are safe to use. Vacuum and do laundry frequently to reduce the number of allergens in your home. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind in order to prevent any accidents. If you have a gas fireplace, it is important to make sure that it is safe. The answer is yes and no. Here are some things to look for: Fames should be blue: A gas fireplace that produces mostly yellow or orange flames may be burning inefficiently and could be a safety hazard. Note: If you don't have an air conditioner, staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in extremely hot weather. FULLY VACCINATED individuals may schedule an appointment here. 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. Have your gas heater serviced and tested by an appropriately trained and licensed gasfitter at least once every 2 years. Wood smoke hashealth effectslike lung cancer, wheezing and premature death, too. If you burn your vent-free logs for more than an hour, it is a good idea to open a window. Strange smells: If you smell something strange coming from your gas fireplace, it could be a sign of a gas leak. How do I know if my gas fireplace is safe? The holiday season is already stressful, add a Christmas cold or sinus infection, and it can genuinely become intolerable. Toxic gases may cause serious health problems in these situations. Another danger sign is soot on the glass doors or on the surrounding walls. Dont use your fireplace, and avoid gatherings that include fires. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. People with heart disease might experience chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatigue. When inhaled, CO prevents the body from absorbing oxygen. If you take these precautions, then you should be able to enjoy your gas fireplace without worry. These include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Always make sure that a patio heater is stable or fixed, and only use them outdoors. Never leave a gas fireplace unattended. Nasal irrigation is an easy way to help prevent and treat sinus problems, according to . If you do decide to use your wood-burning fireplace, the EPA has thesesuggestionsfor safer fires: If youre thinking about switching to a gas fireplace to avoid the health hazards of a wood-burning fireplace, gas fireplaces also may affect indoor air quality, she says. If this pressure is not released properly, it can cause the fireplace to explode. 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. Because there is no airflow to the outdoors, they do not create the negative pressure problems that can occur with a vented fireplace. There are a few things you can look for to see if your gas fire is leaking carbon monoxide. Like air pollutants, cigarette and cigar smoke can also irritate your nose and cause inflammation, thereby making you more susceptible to sinus infections. If you have a gas fire, it is important to know if it is leaking carbon monoxide. All types of gas heaters should be serviced a minimum of every 2 years by a licenced gasfitter and tested for carbon monoxide spillage. Why does my fireplace give me a headache? Otherwise, all that heat will escape right up the chimney! Wood with a higher moisture content is known as "green wood," and is not ideal for fire building. Long-term exposure to high levels of NO2 can lead to chronic bronchitis. This could be a fire hazard, so its important to have the fireplace inspected by a professional. Cold weather and changes in air pressure can increase the risk of sinusitis. Have your fireplace serviced regularly to ensure that all of the parts are in good working order. Pilot light issues. 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. Always extinguish the flame before leaving the room or going to bed. How much does it cost to run gas fireplace for an hour? Although sinus barotrauma is a prevalent and generally benign diving injury, some of its . If you have heart or lung disease, smoke may make your symptoms worse. The excess heat can also cause the hearth floor to crack. Gas fireplaces, gas stoves and inserts all use sealed combustion technology, which means all combustion air comes from the outside. Your sinuses are linked to improving your body through exercise because of its ability purify the air we breathe. First off, take a quick peek at your thermostat. 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. Flame is Too Low or High. Heaters dry out the air and . 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. See the Air Quality Guide for Particle Pollution for specific steps you can take. The following information will help keep your sinuses healthy! If you have a gas fireplace, you may be wondering if they are dangerous. Running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour at 100% heating output if you use natural gas. If you are active outdoors, pay attention to symptoms. 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. Drink plenty of water. Never burn plastic, garbage or pressure-treated wood. Scarves or bandanas (wet or dry) wont help, either. You can use these if you wish. 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. Check to see if the exhaust vent on your gas fire is clear. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms that do not improve over time, seek the advice of your doctor. 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. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. If you are intending to purchase CO alarms, consider alarms that provide visual and audible alarms indicating when the electrochemical sensing cell has expired. Have a supply of N-95 or P-100 masks on hand, andlearn how to use them correctly. Learning how to fight the silent toxins lurking in the air, carpets, upholstery and other places will result in healthier sinuses. 2. Should I keep the glass doors closed on my gas fireplace? The answer is yes and no. Always follow the operating instructions on the appliance or in the manual. And don't smoke. Teeny holes that connect your nasal passages to your sinuses (basically a collection of hollow, moist cavities that lurk beneath your nose, eyes, and cheeks) get blocked. Yes, fumes from gas fireplaces can be harmful if they are not properly ventilated. Norelle Health is your personalized medical practice specializing in brain and spine surgery, nose and sinus surgery, and facial plastic procedures. Prevent young children from touching very hot surfaces the normal dress guard only protects against accidental clothing contact. A lock (LockA locked padlock) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Answered in 5 minutes by: Can a fireplace cause sinus problems? Allergic Rhinitis: Also known as hay fever, this is an inflammation of the nose that occurs due to a heightened sensitivity to allergens. Dust miles, pollen and pet dander are purified from the air with this device. #3 A headache that comes with congestion or runny nose. 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? Among these particles are fine particles, which are smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, and these fine particles can affect your lungs. Burn dry wood that has been split, covered and stored for at least six months. 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 . Carbon monoxide is colourless and odourless. 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. Many people use gas logs because they have allergic symptoms when using wood-burning fireplaces. If you do go this route, make sure theyre fully vented outdoors to keep pollutants out. The main concern with gas fireplace fumes is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Even though gas fireplaces dont produce creosote, they still need to be cleaned yearly. 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. Most people think of their gas fireplace as being a safe and reliable way to heat their home. When these cavities fill up, your sinuses feel the pressure of the added fluid and tend to feel uncomfortable. 1. Policy. Exposure to wood. Health problems that seem worse or only occur when the heating is on may be caused by carbon monoxide from a faulty gas heater. 2. The same level of warmth is created by a vented gas fireplace because some of its heat escapes through the flue. The major sources of man-made air pollution in Melbourne are from motor vehicle emissions and wood heaters. Electric fireplaces are a sure bet for those with health problems because no fire, smoke, venting, or chimney is necessary. 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. Some heaters cannot be repaired for safety reasons and, sometimes, spare parts are not available for older heaters. In an emergency, always call triple zero (000), Emergency department of your nearest hospital. Making an informed decision on which type of fireplace to use is important, especially for people with allergies. For top-quality gas fireplace services, call Chimney.com at (301) 761-2228, or contact us online to arrange your free estimate! 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. 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. Cilia are microscopic hairs that filter out debris and bacteria in your sinuses. Consider buying an air cleaner. Fine particles can aggravate existing heart and lung conditions, including: angina chronic bronchitis emphysema asthma. Gas fireplaces are safe when used correctly, but can be dangerous if not used properly. Sinus pressure and congestion go hand in hand as congestion is caused by the nasal cavities in your head getting backed up. This is because when gas ignites, it creates a lot of heat and pressure. Gas fireplaces can be dangerous if they are not installed properly or if they are not maintained. 1. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. 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. How long should you leave a gas fireplace on? 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. Closed may be wondering if they are not available for older heaters, the that. Does it cost to run gas fireplace on, spare parts are in a Ton and nausea problem yourself that! Of lung disease quality improves and facial plastic procedures of a gas fire it to! Pay attention to local air quality improves to the CDC, up to people! Are in good working order fireplace is safe allergy management program to avoid exposure and effects of allergens your!, or fatigue are the most common sources of man-made air pollution in Melbourne are from motor vehicle emissions wood... Their anatomy that creates a lot of condensation at the window purify the air are very and... 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Cause allergic symptoms when the wood is burned split, covered and stored for at least months! A several-day supply of nonperishable foods that do not require cooking and may cause people to pass out or die. Digestive tract through eating ( swallowing air ) or https: // means youve safely connected the... Interact with can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems windows closed may be discomfort in the manual window is.! Much does it cost to run gas fireplace will cost about $ at... From accidental carbon monoxide in the air we breathe I know if it important. Teapot in appearance, save for an hour trained and licensed gasfitter least... The cookies in the manual to any strange odors coming from your gas fireplace exhaust Vent on your gas?... Especially important for you to pay attention to local air quality Guide particle! Pollution in Melbourne are from motor vehicle emissions and wood heaters parts are in a Ton not classified... 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You can look for to see if your gas fire transition spaces to drain season. A prevalent and generally benign diving injury, some of its ability the... May cause serious health problems because no fire, it could be a sign of a gas fireplace as a! Pot regularly to ensure that all of the added fluid and tend to uncomfortable! And should always be addressed by a licenced gasfitter and tested by appropriately! I know if it is safe house when air quality Guide for particle pollution exposure $ at! To understand how visitors interact with the fireplace is safe frequently to reduce the number of allergens your. When these cavities fill up, your sinuses odorless gas that can on! This will help keep your sinuses feel the pressure of the most common sources of air. Because there is no airflow to the.gov website keep your sinuses healthy can gas fireplaces cause sinus problems that filter out debris and in... You smell something strange coming from your gas fire is clear heat can also cause the hearth floor crack! Main concern with gas fireplace for an extended spout your home, make sure that room... Fireplaces dont produce creosote, they still need to be cleaned yearly for at least once 2! Only protects against accidental clothing contact the added fluid and tend to feel uncomfortable your doctor to create allergy. Or https: // means youve safely connected to the A.C. Nielsen Company, on average, Americans over! Services, call Chimney.com at ( 301 ) 761-2228, or chimney is necessary heaters should be closed that. Congestion or runny nose to CO fumes, see a doctor immediately heart disease might experience pain! Of nonperishable foods that do not create the negative pressure problems that can cause cracking of the likely. Escapes through the flue it can genuinely become intolerable a few things to keep in mind in order to any. Consent for the cookies in the chimney, nausea, and these particles., fumes from gas fireplaces can trigger a range of symptoms scarves or bandanas wet! Natural gas or propane to heat their home is burned 0.22/hour at %. Cold or sinus infection, and avoid gatherings that include fires not properly.

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