When it comes to little-known but important health topics, steam showers may not be at the top of your list. But don’t underestimate their benefits – especially if you suffer from croup. Steam showers have been shown to help alleviate symptoms of croup, such as a dry mouth and throat, chest tightness, coughing and fever. If you or your child is suffering from croup, steam showers may be the best solution for relief yet unknown to you.
What is croup?
Croup is a respiratory illness that most often affects young children. It’s caused by a viral infection, and can make breathing difficult. The illness usually starts with a high fever and sore throat, followed by difficulty breathing. Croup may also cause vomiting and diarrhoea. In some cases, croup can be fatal if not treated quickly. There is no cure for croup, but antibiotics may help reduce the severity of the symptoms. For most children, croup goes away on its own within a few days. However, in rare cases croup can become chronic and require long-term treatment.
How does steam work to help croup?
Steam is a heat and moisture vapor that is created when water comes into contact with high levels of pressure. The steam helps to loosen and disperse the mucus from the respiratory system, helping to reduce the severity of croup. By opening up the airway and helping to clear the airway, steam also helps to reduce inflammation in the respiratory system.
When should a steam shower be used for croup?
A steam shower can help to clear the airways and relieve congestion in the chest. Steam is also thought to improve breathing. When used as part of a croup treatment plan, steam showers can be very helpful in relieving symptoms.
Conclusion
There is some debate as to whether or not a steam shower can help reduce the severity of croup, but there is evidence to suggest that it may be helpful. If you are concerned about croup and would like to try using a steam shower in order to ease your symptoms, we recommend doing so under medical supervision.
