Steam inhalation treatment for children

Though steam inhalation can be safely used by adults, this treatment should be administered cautiously for children. Steam inhalation is a common home remedy to alleviate colds. It eases congestion by moistening dry mucus membranes and soothes respiratory discomfort caused by colds, sinusitis, or allergies.

However, though steam inhalation can be safely used by adults, this treatment should be administered cautiously for children. Children are very sensitive to heat and there is risk of scalding.

Dr. Mamata Panda, senior consultant, paediatrics, CARE Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, suggests safe ways to use steam inhalation for children of differing age groups:

12-16 years

Boil water and pour into a bowl or basin.
Allow water to cool slightly.
Get your child to sit comfortably on a chair.
Encourage her to lean over the bowl, covering her head and bowl with a towel to create a tent-like structure.
Inhale the steam through the nose for about 5-10 minutes, taking breaks if the
heat gets uncomfortable.
Be cautious with hot water and ensure adult supervision.
Steam from an electric steamer can also be used in a similar way.

Below 12 years

For young children, it’s best to use a cool-mist humidifier in their room rather than steam inhalation, as there is a risk of
scalding during steaming.
Ensure humidifier is cleaned regularly to prevent mould or bacterial growth.

INFANTS

Steam inhalation is not recommended for infants. The hot steam is unsuitable for their sensitive skin and airways.
For infants, it’s better to use a cool-mist humidifier in the room to maintain optimal humidity levels.
Ensure the infant’s room is well-ventilated. Also, it’s important to breastfeed to build her immunity.

There have been many instances of burns in children caused by steam inhalation. This is because children are naturally restless or careless, and often this can result in the parent or child pushing over the hot water by mistake. Therefore, it’s important that steaming is administered with caution, and always under adult supervision.