While the warmth may feel soothing, health experts warn that this common habit can come at a high and often unnoticed cost.
According to medical professionals, fire smoke releases toxic gases and fine particles that can slowly harm the body, especially when people sit close to the fire for long periods or burn wood and coal in closed spaces. What feels like comfort on the outside may be trouble building on the inside.
Smoke from burning wood or coal can irritate the lungs, causing coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. For people with asthma, bronchitis, or COPD, this exposure can turn a mild condition into a serious flare up.
Carbon monoxide is a silent and odorless gas released by fire. In poorly ventilated rooms, it can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, brain damage or even death. Experts say this risk is highest when fires are lit indoors.
Smoke particles can make eyes sting, water, and turn red. Prolonged exposure may also dry out the skin, leading to itching, irritation, and allergic reactions.
Fine particles from smoke can enter the bloodstream through the lungs, putting extra strain on the heart. This can disturb heart rhythm and raise the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in older adults and heart patients.
Burning wood and coal worsens air pollution. Over time, breathing polluted air can increase the risk of serious illnesses, including cancer. Experts call it a slow-burning danger.
Safety tips experts strongly recommend. Always light fires in open or well ventilated spaces. Sit at least 3 to 5 feet away from the flames. Never burn coal or use a brazier in closed rooms. Use only dry, clean wood, never burn plastic or rubber.
Take regular breaks and breathe fresh air. Keep children, elderly people, and sick individuals away from smoke.
Doctors advise that warm clothing, safe heaters, and proper insulation are far healthier ways to stay warm during winter. Fire warmth may feel comforting for the moment, but without care, it can quietly harm health.
In winter, experts say, smart warmth is better than quick warmth, because health once lost is hard to regain.
