How Room Heaters Can Negatively Impact Your Health? Expert Explains

As winter temperatures decrease many turn to room heaters for warmth, but this seemingly cozy solution may come at a cost to your health. Prolonged exposure to these devices can lead to several negative impacts on your well-being. To mitigate risks, ensure proper ventilation, regular maintenance, and be mindful of potential allergic reactions. Staying warm is essential, but it’s equally important to prioritize your health in the process. 

Dr Nikhil Modi, Senior Consultant, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi shares how room heaters may negatively impact your health. 

Here Are Some Potential Negative Impacts:

1. Dryness: Heaters can significantly reduce air humidity, leading to dry skin, eyes, throat, and sinuses. This can cause discomfort, irritation, and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections.

2. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Improperly maintained or faulty fuel-burning heaters can leak carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Early symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.

3. Fire Hazards: Overheated heaters or those placed near flammable materials can easily cause fires.

4. Allergies and Asthma: Dry air can worsen allergies and asthma by triggering dust and pollen particles. Additionally, some heaters may emit pollutants that irritate the respiratory system.

5. Eye and Skin Irritation: Dry air and dust particles stirred up by heaters can cause eye discomfort and irritation, while dry skin can become itchy and flaky.

6. Overheating: Staying in a room that’s too hot can lead to dehydration, dizziness, and heat stroke.

7. Sleep Disruption: Dry air and overheating can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased well-being.

Precautionary Measures To Follow:

1. Maintenance and Ventilation: Regularly maintain your heater, ensuring proper ventilation and cleaning. Install carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms in your home.

2. Humidity Levels: Use humidifiers to maintain optimal humidity levels (40-60%). Placing a bowl of water near the heater can also help.

3. Temperature Control: Avoid overheating the room. Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature (around 68-72°F) and wear layers of clothing to adjust.

4. Safe Placement: Keep the heater away from flammable materials and ensure proper clearance from furniture and drapes. Never leave a heater unattended.

5. Regular Breaks: Take breaks from the heated space to avoid prolonged exposure to dry air.

6. Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and prevent dryness.

7. Consult a Doctor: If you have any pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor before using a room heater, especially if you are concerned about potential risks.

“While room heaters can be helpful in cold weather, it’s crucial to be mindful of their potential health impacts. Prioritizing proper ventilation, maintaining humidity levels, and using the heater responsibly are key. If you have any respiratory issues, consult your doctor before using a heater, and be extra vigilant about potential risks,” Dr Modi said. 

Using room heaters safely and responsibly can help you stay warm and comfortable during the cold months without compromising your health, he further added.