If you have never heard of a steam shower, you are not alone. Steam showers are a fairly new invention that is slowly but surely gaining popularity. So, what is a steam shower? A steam shower is a type of shower that uses steam to cleanse and relax the body. But are steam showers really effective? And are they safe for people with respiratory problems, such as RSV? In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of steam showers and whether or not they are a good option for people with RSV.
What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that can cause severe respiratory illness in infants and young children. Symptoms of RSV include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. RSV is most commonly spread through contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva, mucus, or blood. It can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, toys, or utensils. RSV is a highly contagious virus and can quickly spread through daycare centers, schools, and families. In most cases, RSV will cause mild to moderate respiratory illness; however, some people may experience more severe symptoms that require hospitalization. There is no specific treatment for RSV; however, there are certain precautions that can be taken to prevent the spread of the virus. These include washing hands often, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and disinfecting surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus. Steam showers have been shown to be effective in killing the RSV virus. A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that steam showers reduced the levels of viable RSV by over 90%. This means that steam showers could potentially help to prevent the spread of RSV within households and other close quarters.
The Benefits of Steam Showers
Steam showers offer many benefits for those suffering from RSV. The steam can help to thin mucus and open airways, making it easier to breathe. The heat can also help to relieve muscle aches and pains. In addition, the humidity in a steam shower can help to keep the skin hydrated, which can be beneficial for people with RSV who are prone to dryness and cracking.
How to Use a Steam Shower
If you’re considering a steam shower, you may be wondering how to use one. Here’s a quick guide:
First, make sure the steam shower is clean before using it. This will help ensure that you get the most benefit from the steam.
Next, close the door to the steam shower and turn on the steam. The room will fill with steam quickly.
Once the room is full of steam, spend about 10-15 minutes in the shower. You can adjust the temperature of the shower to your liking.
After yoursteam shower, make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Are There Any Risks?
There are no known risks associated with steam showers. However, as with any showering, it is important to take precautions to avoid scalding. The water in a steam shower should be no hotter than 115 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent burns.
Tips for preventing RSV
1. Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face.
2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
3. Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
4. Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and dispose of used tissues properly.
5. Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional showers, then a steam shower might be a good option for you. Steam showers have many benefits, including helping to relieve congestion and loosen mucus. If you have RSV, however, it is important to talk to your doctor before using a steam shower, as the heat and moisture can make your symptoms worse.
