Do humidifiers help colds?

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aqblickley asks:

I've often heard that humidifiers help relieve cold symptoms, but I've never actually tried them. Recently, I read an article that said that there is no clear evidence that humidifiers actually work for this purpose.

Anyone have more information? Has anyone found humidifiers to be a big help for colds?

In Topics: Physical Health, Medical problems

> 60 days ago

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Expert

Wayne Yankus

Jan 6, 2011

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What the Expert Says:

Humidifiers can make you comfortable, but there is no clear evidence they are useful in disease. Cold humidifiers may grow mold if not maintained weekly and hot air humidifiers (steam) can burn children and rarely last the night. Increased humidity is helpful with children who have croup or adults with sinus congestion.

Wayne Yankus, MD, FAAP
expert panelist: pediatrics

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Additional Answers (2)

Dr.Monika , Child Professional writes:

Humidifiers do not relieve cold symptoms.

The best treatment for colds includes the following:

1. Chicken soup - research indicates that it works like Mucinex. It thins out mucus, helps with nasal congestion, and stimulates the immune system.
2. Saline nasal spray - salty water soothes nasal membranes and relieves nasal congestion.
3. Avoidance of dairy products - they thicken phlegm that worsens coughs.
4. Honey - it suppresses cough better than cough suppressants and is safe for children over the age of 1 year.

Best regards.

Resources:

http://www.pluggedinparents.com

> 60 days ago

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