How steam inhalation work in sinus problems?
Increased mucociliary activity has been observed with saline irrigation and steam inhalation which seems to achieve faster recovery. In patients of chronic sinusitis disease, the mucociliary activity is known to be impaired. It is found that steam inhalation improved mucociliary activity significantly in chronic sinus patients.
Nasal inhalation of steam has been proposed as treatment of viral colds on the assumption that increased intranasal temperature will inhibit replication of rhinovirus. The steam inactivates the flu virus. Most people at home use the old fashioned way of head over a bowl of steaming hot water.
Eucalyptus oil or menthol or aromatic herbal leaves (thulasi) in steam inhalation is recommended for relieving nasal congestion and sinus congestion, usually from colds and flu. It can be done two to four times a day to relieve symptoms.
The steam therapy is good after nasal surgery to get rid of the crusts and blood clots.
Safety Precautions- Be careful in children, avoid burns and scalds.
Dr Paulose is an ENT Consultant Plastic and Laser Surgeon with over 35 years of experience covering in Ear, Nose and Throat procedures, specializing in Laser Surgery and conventional medicine across India, U.K. and Middle East. He is currently engaged with the Jubilee Hospital, in Kerala, India.
{ 3 comments }
Dear Dr. Paulose,
I had used methoplus (emami product ) a very small ball bearing size of methoplus in hot water inhalation for my child who is 6 years old. I was with her due to safety precautions and happened to inhale the first part of it, it created a sort of a bit of a breathing problem like something stuck up my passage. Could you please let me know if it may have effected my child. I later read the cover that said for external use only. Please advise
Thanks
Not to worry. I donot think it caused any damage to your child.Better avoid using strong menthol crystals for steam inhalation in kids.
Dr. Paulose,
I have recently started to use a steam inhaler with a saline solution. Is this safe to do with a saline solution, or should I stick to water only. Do I need to stay clear of certain salt types?
Thanks.
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