Fatima Khalil wrote Wednesday, December 13, 2023 12:00 PM
When you have a cold or any other respiratory illness, inhaling steam from a steamer or a bowl of hot water may help loosen mucus in the lungs and sinuses, help relieve congestion, sore throat, and improve hoarseness, according to the “Very Well Health” website. .
Benefits of steam inhalation
Steam inhalation can be used to relieve symptoms of conditions that cause congestion, runny nose, and sore throat, such as:
–Colds (viral infection of the upper respiratory tract – nose and throat)
Sinus infection (sinusitis, inflammation of the lining of the spaces in the face and head)
Croup (infection of the upper airway, causing a barking cough)
-Bronchiolitis (common respiratory infection in infants and young children)
Bronchitis (inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs)
-Allergy (a condition in which your immune system reacts to a foreign substance, causing itchy eyes and skin, runny nose, and nasal congestion)
Steam inhalation and improve sleep
There is significant evidence that steam inhalation before bed can help with sleep. One study in adult men found that this practice alleviated anxiety during sleep and improved the quality of rest.
Benefits of steam inhalation for colds and sinuses
Many people with upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold and sinusitis, find steam inhalation helpful as part of treatment. In general, treatment for these conditions focuses on rest and drinking fluids while managing symptoms.
Although steam inhalation does not kill viruses or bacteria, it may help the body fight infections.
Benefits of steam inhalation to treat a cold
Helps sleep
Making sure you get enough sleep is essential to combat colds and sinus infections. Your body needs rest as it fights illness. Inhaling steam at night can be helpful in making you feel relaxed and ready for sleep.
Treatment of hoarseness
Your voice becomes hoarse and strained when your vocal cords (larynx) are irritated. This can be caused by respiratory diseases, allergies, singing too much, or speaking loudly. Steam enters these structures, moisturizes them and improves their movement and function.
Treating congestion
Steam inhalation may also help treat congestion because it can loosen mucus in the lungs, throat, and sinuses (particularly prevalent in sinus infections). While results are mixed in terms of effectiveness, getting rid of this mucus helps relieve pressure. It makes breathing easier.
Treating dry sinuses
Dry and irritated sinuses, especially nasal passages, can accompany colds and other respiratory infections.
Inhalation sessions bring moisture to these areas, which helps relieve symptoms.
Studies have confirmed that hot steam can kill viruses that cause colds in the respiratory system, as high temperatures can have this effect on them.
2023-12-13 10:00:00
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