Steam inhalation, or steam therapy or steam treatment, is a home remedy employed to alleviate congestion and respiratory discomfort symptoms. This technique involves inhaling warm air infused with water vapour to soothe the respiratory tract and provide relief from congestion, coughing, and related symptoms.
It is commonly used as a temporary measure to alleviate conditions such as the common cold, sinus congestion, bronchitis, and allergies.
However, the quick comfort derived from steam inhalation often prompts many parents to administer it to their children. But a pertinent question arises: Is steam inhalation safe for children?
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Is steam inhalation good for children?
According to experts, providing steam inhalation to children under the age of six is not recommended.
Based on the information collected by South First from sources such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, and various studies, there are no immediate proven benefits of inhalations for children.
“However, there are associated risks of burns from spilling hot water, so I don’t recommend steam inhalation for children at all,” Dr Sivaranjani Santosh, a paediatrician based in Hyderabad told South First.
Dr D Srikanth, Senior Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist at Yashoda Hospitals in Hyderabad, also emphasised the importance of considering the child’s age. “I don’t recommend steam inhalation for younger children below the age of six,” Dr Srikanth echoed while speaking to South First.
However, he added that inhaling warm steam can indeed help alleviate discomfort caused by irritated and swollen blood vessels in nasal passages. The steam’s moisture may also contribute to thinning mucus within the sinuses, aiding smoother drainage and, in turn, temporarily restoring normal breathing patterns.
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Diverse study results
A 2013 study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) yielded mixed findings regarding the efficacy of steam inhalation. While it indicated symptomatic relief in cases of common cold, the overall conclusion was that the available evidence supporting steam inhalation as a standard clinical practice for treating the common cold remains insufficient.
An analysis of six clinical trials focusing on steam therapy for adults with the common cold produced diverse outcomes. Some participants reported symptomatic relief, while others did not experience the same benefits. Additionally, certain individuals encountered nasal discomfort due to steam inhalation.
In another clinical trial, the efficacy of steam inhalation in managing chronic sinus symptoms was assessed. This study found limited benefit, primarily related to headache relief, with little impact on other sinus-related symptoms.
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Potential harm to children
Dr Sivaranjani Santosh highlighted the sensitivity of young children to heat and steam, emphasising the risk of burns or discomfort. Additionally, difficulty in children remaining still and cooperating during steam inhalation sessions poses challenges.
The risk of scalding oneself through direct contact with hot water during steam inhalation is a significant concern. However, the greater risk lies in accidentally tipping over the bowl of hot water, resulting in severe burns, particularly in sensitive areas of the body.
For children with respiratory issues, safer alternatives to relieve congestion include using a humidifier, maintaining proper hydration, and employing saline nasal drops. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure tailored care and treatment for each child’s specific needs.
Dr Srikanth suggests an alternative approach for children, “If you wish to provide steam to children, the best way is by turning on a hot shower and create humidity in the bathroom. The child can then benefit from the steam indirectly.”
Dr Santosh supports the idea and offers another alternative, “Another option is to provide a slightly warm towel, similar to a sponge, to the child.”
