Dry air can wreak havoc on your respiratory system and greatly increase your risk of countless health problems. If you are tired of constantly getting sore throats, then you need to come up with a comprehensive solution for improving your home’s air quality.
Use Lozenges and Other Sore Throat Products
These products shouldn’t be thought of as a permanent solution, but they could provide you with some relief while you explore all of your other options. In addition to over-the-counter lozenges, you should also consider some home remedies. Studies have revealed that gargling with salt water three times a day can soothe a sore throat and reduce one’s risk of an upper respiratory infection. Drinking plenty of herbal tea with local honey is another great home remedy for sore throats and other respiratory problems.
Invest in Humidifiers
Those who live in a naturally dry environment might need to invest in one or more humidifiers for their homes. A humidifier is nothing more than a small device that fills the air with moisture, and most of them are relatively inexpensive. Some can have essential oils added for further soothing effects, though this should be avoided if you have pets. You also have the option of installing a whole-house humidifier if your entire family struggles with constant throat pain. One of those devices will be quite an investment, but it could greatly improve your family’s comfort, especially if you live in a dry or desert-like climate.
Double-Check the HVAC System
Any problems with your HVAC system could result in humidity problems in your home. An aging or damaged HVAC system might also be blowing in unwanted allergens, and those contaminants are terrible for your respiratory system. At least once or twice a year, you should hire a local contractor who offers basic HVAC services. That contractor can ensure that your HVAC system remains clean and well-maintained. You may also want to consider installing radiators for your heating system, as other heating systems tend to dry out the air. If you don’t want to uproot all of your heating system, consider getting a single radiator for your bedroom. This will allow you to sleep easier, especially during a dry winter.
Temporarily Vent Your Dryer Indoors
The primary purpose of a dryer’s exhaust tube is to vent moisture out of the home. By disconnecting that tube and directing it toward the inside of your home, you will be able to increase the humidity levels. That tactic should improve your comfort for a short period of time, but you must reattach the tube within a few days. Leaving the tube permanently unattached could result in a mold or mildew outbreak, as high humidity levels allow moisture to collect on fabric and other porous surfaces. If venting indoors isn’t an option, you can also line-dry your clothing indoors to increase the humidity. The water evaporating off of the clothes will raise the moisture level of the air, though this does not work if the humidity level is already very high.
While these few tips and tricks can be very effective, your sore throat might be the result of a serious health issue that needs to be treated. As a general rule, you should always schedule a checkup with your doctor if you have a sore throat that lasts for more than a few days.
