🚨 Cold & Flu Warning: Avoid Steam Inhalation 🚨
As the flu season hits us earlier than usual, a top Welsh doctor is sounding the alarm about a surprising danger: steam inhalation. Many turn to this age-old remedy to relieve congestion, but it could lead to serious burns, especially in children 😟.
Dr. Jeremy Yarrow, a consultant surgeon at Morriston Hospital, warns that steam from boiling water can easily spill, causing severe injuries. Forget the bowl of hot water—there are safer and more effective ways to tackle your cold symptoms. Here’s what the NHS recommends instead:
🔹 Stay hydrated—drink plenty of fluids.
🔹 Use decongestant sprays, vapour rubs, or salt water nasal rinses.
🔹 Most importantly, rest and let your body do its job.
Dr. Yarrow also advises against relying on steam to ease colds, as there’s no solid scientific backing. If burns do occur, remember the 3Cs: Cool, Call, Cover. Run the burn under cold water for 20 minutes, call for help, and cover with cling film or sterile dressing.
And while we’re talking about hot stuff, let’s not forget hot water bottles! Janine Evans, an occupational therapist, reminds us never to use freshly boiled water and to replace bottles older than two years to avoid painful scalds.
Stay safe and informed, and take these precautions to heart this winter 🌬️❄️!