Wood Fires Might Be Fun, But Here’s Why They’re Not Good For Your Health
Wood fires have been around for a pretty long time. Whether it’s a bonfire, a campfire, or a fireplace inside a cottage, the entire concept brings a feeling of community and homeliness. Every person has a unique memory of a wood fire. Some recall scary stories, while others enjoy a cup of hot chocolate near the blazing flames.
The idea of a wood fire might sound cozy and romantic, but slowly, people are becoming aware of the effects it can have. Wood fires are considered to be saviors in winters, especially in outdoor environments. Of course, most of us are familiar with toasting marshmallows around a campfire.
Everyone knows that wood is a natural resource and also, in a way, a cheaper option for many individuals. This especially goes for those who live close to the forest or away from the city. Some people even use logs inside to set up fires, and the whole family enjoys the warmth released by the hearth.
Harmful effects
Most of us tend to overlook the negative effects that wood fires might have on our health. Several times, it is noticed that small particles are released as the fire burns brightly. No matter how much one tries, you cannot stay away from these tiny bits of matter.
- Air pollutants
The air pollutants and particles can enter the bloodstream as they are literally inhaled. They can even cause harm to the lungs. Some of the chemical compounds include benzene, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and other poisonous substances. Now let us discuss some chemical components that are quite problematic.
- Carbon monoxide
When it comes to the size of this matter, it is actually half of the human hair. Due to this reason, they penetrate deep into the lungs. Carbon monoxide can cause dizziness and even shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can also cause heart disease. Also, it can have really adverse effects on the health of pregnant women, babies, and the elderly.
In the case of pregnant women, prolonged exposure can severely damage the fetus and cause a miscarriage. Carbon monoxide is found in tobacco smoke, and this fact is enough to explain its nature. Also, for other individuals, it can harm the brain and heart. Surely, it is more hazardous in enclosed spaces.
- Oxides of Nitrogen
Oxides of nitrogen are divided into two types. Nitrogen dioxide is a gas that is acidic in nature and is highly corrosive. This gas can reach the respiratory tract and put a person at risk of asthma. Long term exposure can result in chronic lung disease. Moreover, it also has a negative impact on the human senses.
People who have asthma should avoid wood fires as much as they can. This is due to the fact that oxides of nitrogen aggravate asthma. Repetitive coughing and choking can lead to swelling of the throat. Pregnant women are warned to stay away from these harmful oxides. In occurrences of overexposure, it is best to contact your healthcare professional before it gets too late.
- Benzene
Benzene is one of the main constituents of the particles that are released by wood fires. It is a compound that evaporates rapidly and can be inhaled quite easily. Benzene can slow down the inner processes that occur in a cell and therefore is extremely dangerous.
Also, it can harm the bone marrow and cause anemia. Direct exposure to this toxic compound can even cause tissue injury or damage the lungs. Over the passage of time, the immune system may weaken, and also the overall health of the person decreases. Another side effect is excessive fatigue.
- Formaldehyde
Even though it is produced in our body in small amounts, too much formaldehyde can have a deteriorating effect on humans. It can irritate the respiratory tract and eyes. As a consequence, constant eye rubbing occurs, which can be quite detrimental. It is even worse for the skin as well as the nose. A lot of exposure to formaldehyde can result in cancer.
Formaldehyde can cause watery eyes. It is very common to see people rub their eyes when exposed to wood fires. This compound is one of the reasons for the phenomenon. It is an undeniable fact that this chemical also increases the risk of leukemia and brain cancer.
- Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH)
PAH is present in wood naturally and therefore is released from burning. Once these hydrocarbons enter the body, they result in irritation of the eyes and, in some cases, even nausea. Long-term effects include cataracts, kidney damage, and inflammation of the skin.
Repetitive irritation of the skin can cause allergic dermatitis. Lacrimation is also a reaction that happens because of polyaromatic hydrocarbons. This is especially harmful to children and pets. It can put a person at risk of gastrointestinal cancer. Another risk generated by polyaromatic hydrocarbons is the high probability of bladder cancer.
- Butadiene
Butadiene possesses an odor that is similar to gasoline. High doses of this gas can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs to a great extent. The nervous system may also become affected. Other problems include headache, fatigue, and vertigo. Plus, this gas is highly flammable and, therefore, unsafe around children.
Butadiene is carcinogenic in nature and known for its ability to promote the growth of tumors inside the body. Bronchospasm is especially terrible for people who have asthma. Irritation of the eyes is a contributing factor to ocular diseases such as chemical conjunctivitis.
Conclusion
With this article, we hope that you understand how wood fires can have negative outcomes on the human body. Since childhood, most of us have a special bond with the notion of wood fires, but the truth is different. However, as technology improves, new ways of setting up fires have been introduced that are safer. It is integral to be aware of how our actions can impact not only the environment but also our health.
To learn more about your safety and health when it comes to wood fires, you can turn to the experts at South Florida Cardiovascular Specialist and keep yourself safe!
