But people with severe asthma may prefer electric stoves. That's according to a study conducted by San Francisco researchers. They determined that people who regularly use gas stoves had twice the number of asthma- related emergency room visits, compared to people who didn't use gas stoves or who used them less frequently. Gas stove-users with severe asthma were also more likely to require hospitalization because of their asthma. People with severe asthma are especially sensitive to indoor pollutants.
Gas stoves give off a gas called nitrogen dioxide that irritates breathing passages and eyes.
Most people may not even notice it, but people with asthma may be more sensitive to the irritants. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say environment can play a big role in asthma for adults and children. Talk to your doctor about things you can do to minimize asthma triggers in your home if you or your child has asthma. In addition to gas stoves, other factors include dust, building materials and pests. Other Topics Health Watch is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional.