Can Humidifiers Help with Seasonal Allergies?

Spring is right around the corner, which means it’s time to leave our winter woes behind and look forward to more sunlight, warmer weather, and all the beautiful blooms.

We should be excited, right? For some, not quite. Unfortunately, this also means allergy season is in full swing.

One question we get a lot here at AIRCARE HQ is if a humidifier can help with seasonal allergies, and the answer is YES! If you suffer from coughing, sneezing, and sniffling this time of year and find yourself wondering how the beauty of Spring can cause so much misery, keep reading.

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is an allergic response to certain allergens. Pollen is the most common trigger, causing symptoms like a runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and coughing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 19.2 million adults have been diagnosed with hay fever associated with pollen.

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies can be triggered by a host of things throughout the seasons, but in the Spring, pollen is the prime suspect. The increased spore production in trees like oak, cedar, and alder can cause our bodies to spring into fight mode which results in the congestion, sniffling, itching, and the list goes on.

How a Humidifier Can Help

While there is no known cure for allergies, with regular usage and proper cleaning, humidifiers can help relieve your allergy symptoms by adding moisture to the air in your home. The added moisture, or humidity, lubricates your nasal passages and helps relieve inflammation in your sinuses and will also loosen up mucous and other irritants (and allergens), making it easier to expel.

Adding essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus to your humidifier can provide a little extra relief as well. They are both great for aiding in congestion!

PRO TIP: Make sure your humidifier is equipped with an essential oil diffuser before adding them. Adding essential oil directly to the water in your humidifier can damage the unit! Our Ultrasonic models, like the AURORA, AURORAmini, NOVA, and DUET are a great option if you want to use essential oils!

Seasonal allergens can also trigger eczema flare ups or hives, resulting in dry, painful, and itchy skin. Studies have shown that running a humidifier in your home can keep your skin hydrated and help relieve those painful flare ups. Experts recommend setting your humidity level between 40-60%. This level is the sweet spot for ultimate comfort and relief. It can also help reduce the spread of viruses in the air!

If you struggle with seasonal allergies, you are not alone, and we hear you! Our goal here at AIRCARE is to provide the best humidifiers for your home to make YOU more comfortable.

Have questions? Our Customer Care Team can happily assist you via phone, email, or chat!