Here are the pros and cons of using humidifiers, care to add anything?

General
1

http://coolmisthumidifier.org/how-to-use-a-cool-mist-humidifier/

Before I had any idea I had autoimmune, I had allergies to deal with, and started using a humidifier/vaporizer. The allergist told me it was contributing to bronchitis, told me NOT to use them.

So what are your thoughts on their benefit? I am aware that humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air conditioners can grow bacteria and fungi, and need to be kept clean.

Thoughts?

2

He may be opposed to them because in some cases a dirty filter will cause or worsen respiratory infections.

I personally use a cool mist humidifier with a ceramic filter which prevents mold buildup. Every time I fill it the filter gets rinsed. I think it is personally safe for me. I use it for my dry eyes and skin.

If you are truly afraid of bacteria there are personal size humidifiers. You put a bottle of water in the base and turn it on. The water only lasts maybe 8 hrs depending on bottle size.

i guess use is based on personal preference.

3

I’m a little afraid of bacteria, but would consider using them in extreme circumstances and not regularly.

By now, you know I can be a little sarcastic…the big con for me is it totally messes up my hairdo!!!

4

I have a tiny spa sized one. I runs about 4.5 hours. I turn it on when i climb in bed and it runs itself out. It has made such an amazing difference in the eye dryness overnight I am almost afraid to go without it. The weather is getting humid here now so I may try a night or too, but its been wonderful not waking up with eyes crusted shut.

The lung issue is another story. I had no idea that it could be a problem. That scares me as I do have to be careful about sinus and respiratory infections. It was a good reminder to make sure the filter stays clear.

5

I think that if they are kept clean, using white vinegar and water (preferably filtered water), then they can be a real benefit. SS contributes to bronchitis, so it would seem that you have to pick which you think will be the biggest bother. I don't like to clean the humidifier, but the cannula that I use with the c-pap machine, and the mist it produces, works the same way and has to be cleaned the same way.

6

I had no idea my respiratory problems (which I've had for more years than I care to remember) were a symptom of SS.

Last spring I was sick for over a month. They told me I have COPD and put me on Advair. Also told me I would have to use Advair for the rest of my life. Well forget that................once I felt better I stopped using it. I frequently feel like my lungs have fluid in them. Occasional "wet cough". Anyone else have this?

Sjogrens, the gift that keeps giving.

7

Connie…..I was on Advair for a long time and it does help. It makes sense that the symptoms would come back once you stopped. And yes, that fluid feeling is part of it. I definitely deal with that at times. Especially when allergy season is kicking as one autoimmune issue can trigger the other.

Generally speaking, you don't want to be on Advair for long periods as it can cause serious problems if you do have a major asthmatic episode. But once you are well controlled, the doc can step you down to something else that doesn't have the element that causes problems. I would ask you doc about that. Going totally off asthma meds may not be the best idea. Respiratory issues (including sinus, etc) are serious issues for us.

8

EnjoyLife,

Thanks for this information. I really had no idea my lung issues were caused by SS.

I will go back to see my ENT to discuss this.

Thank you again...

9

Keep us posted!!! We can always use more info.

10

Here is a PubMed Link http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21429651

Another link for another journal/site http://ard.bmj.com/content/58/1/61.full

http://www.uptodate.com/contents/interstitial-lung-disease-associated-with-sjogrens-syndrome-clinical-manifestations-evaluation-and-diagnosis

The most common problem with SS is dry cough, and that is where something like 12 hour Mucinex (no other added meds ) or Pilocarpine might come in handy. However, I included some of the other things that can happen. Lung involvement with Primary SS is fairly common, I understand, but I don't know what that means, exactly. That's a wide area.

11

Thank you for information you've posted. Very helpful in understanding just what's going on.