Humidifiers are a great way to relieve an unpleasant cough and help break down mucus in the chest. They don't make a cough worse, but they can if they aren't properly maintained or if humidity levels stay too high. Clean humidifiers can help ease the symptoms of a cold, but excessive humidity can increase body temperature and worsen asthma. People should use distilled or demineralized water to minimize the growth of mites, mold and bacteria.
A vaporizer is a better option for people with indoor allergens, as it heats the water to create a haze with fewer contaminants than a humidifier. Both vaporizers and humidifiers can help relieve throat irritation and congestion by adding moisture to the air. It all depends on personal preference, but it's important to clean the device properly to avoid “humidifier fever”.
