Top 7 Standout Steam Inhalers | Medical News Today's Review
In recent times, steam inhalers have gained popularity as a means to alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions such as the common cold, asthma, sinusitis, and allergies. However, it's essential to understand the limitations and potential benefits of these devices.
Steam inhalers are devices that use water vapor to help loosen mucus in the nasal passages, lungs, and throat. They are suitable for both children and adults, and models like the AVYA Portable Steam Inhaler and the Crane Corded Personal Steam Inhaler are designed with ease of use in mind.
The AVYA Portable Steam Inhaler, weighing 7.76 oz and measuring 7.8 x 5.6 x 5.3 in, uses rechargeable batteries and comes with a starter saline kit. On the other hand, the Crane Corded Personal Steam Inhaler, which weighs 1.3 lb and has dimensions of 4.7 x 4.7 x 9.2 in, features a soft face mask, a quiet operation, an automatic shut-off feature, and is compatible with vapor pads for scents.
Other popular models include the Gurin Personal Steam Inhaler Vaporizer, the MABIS Facial Steamer, the Veridian Steam Inhaler, the MyPurMist Classic Handheld Personal Vaporizer and Humidifier, and the Vicks Personal Steam Inhaler V1200. Each of these devices offers unique features such as adjustable steam control, essential oil compatibility, temperature regulation, self-cleaning functions, and a removable face mask.
While steam inhalers can provide short-term relief of nasal congestion by loosening mucus and soothing irritated nasal passages, there is no strong scientific evidence that they reduce the duration or severity of nasal congestion or related infections. A 2017 systematic review found that it is uncertain whether heated water vapor eases symptoms of the common cold effectively.
It's important to note that improper use can cause burns or respiratory irritation, especially in children. A 2017 study found that over a 2-year period in one hospital, 19 people in the United Kingdom required hospital treatment due to scalding injuries from steam inhalation.
People should not use steam inhalers instead of medication or treatments that a doctor recommends or prescribes. Instead, they can be used as an additional tool to help manage symptoms. For example, the Crane Corded Personal Steam Inhaler can be used as a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help alleviate dryness and irritation.
In conclusion, while steam inhalers may provide short-term relief of nasal congestion, there is no strong scientific evidence that they reduce the duration or severity of nasal congestion or related infections. It's essential to use these devices with caution and always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid injury.
- Aromatherapy, with scents compatible with devices like the Crane Corded Personal Steam Inhaler, can potentially enhance the experience of using steam inhalers for health and wellness.
- Following medical advice is crucial, as steam inhalers should not replace recommended therapies and treatments for medical-conditions, such as the common cold, asthma, or sinusitis.
- Some studies, like the 2017 systematic review, express uncertainty about the effectiveness of steam inhalation in reducing the duration or severity of the common cold, while others, like the 2017 study, highlight the potential risks such as burns or respiratory irritation, particularly in children.
- In the realm of alternative therapies and treatments, CBD (cannabidiol) might be an area of further investigation regarding its potential synergy with steam inhalation and its impact on respiratory-conditions, though research remains limited at this point.
