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It's true that big sities like New York City is no Santa-Fe/Espanola, which is ranked as the cleanest metropolitan area in the U.S. by the American Lung Association. In fact, NYC is ranked number 18 on the list of most polluted metropolitan areas. Even so, a humidifier won't make a difference for your struggling lungs.

Humidifiers do not clean the air; they add warm or cool moisture. This increase in humidity can help prevent dry skin, noses, and throats, especially when exposed to heated air during the cold months. Humidifiers can also make it more comfortable for those with colds or sore throats to breathe — but they do not cure these illnesses, nor do they purify air.

What you're probably looking for are air filters, especially HEPA filters that can remove microscopic particles. These devices can make the air cleaner, and are sometimes recommended for people with asthma and/or severe allergies. However, they tend to be expensive (good ones can cost hundreds of dollars), and need to be cleaned frequently if they're going to continue to work at maximum efficiency. While owning an air filter won't hurt, no evidence exists that they offer significant health benefits for people without breathing problems.

The American Lung Association encourages everyone to get involved in the fight for cleaner, healthier air. Here are some simple, effective tips for protecting you and your family from the dangers of air pollution:

• Plan outdoor exercise or strenuous work in the mornings or night, when pollution levels are lower.

• If possible, avoid rush hour traffic and streets that are especially congested; instead, choose roads and sidewalks off the beaten path.

• Check your local weather for smog alerts (most likely to occur from May to September). On smog alert days, children, the elderly, and folks with heart and lung problems need to be especially careful to avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

• Support laws and regulations to control air pollution.

• Walk, bike or carpool. Combine trips. Use buses, subways, light rail systems, commuter trains or other alternatives to driving your car.

• Fill up your gas tank after dark. Gasoline emissions evaporate as you fill up your gas tank. These emissions contribute to the formation of ozone, a component of smog. Fill up after dark to keep the sun from turning those gases into air pollution.

• Don't allow anyone to smoke indoors and support measures to make all public places smokefree. Dangerous particles from cigarette smoke can remain in the air long after a cigarette has been extinguished.

All that said, if you would like to buy a humidifier or an air filter to see if they let you breathe easier, go for it. You may also find that potted plants lend your bedroom the illusion of "greener pastures," so to speak. The city can feel grungy sometimes; experiment with your surroundings so that you're comfortable, and sleep well!

Source: lungusa.org