Surgeon warns of dangers of steam remedies

Breathing in hot steam is seen as a traditional way to ease flu symptoms, but one expert has warned of the dangers it poses.

- JANE KIRBY Press Association Reporter

A SURGEON has issued a warning over burns caused by people using steam inhalation as a remedy for coughs and colds.

Jeremy Yarrow, a consultant surgeon at the NHS Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, said he and his colleagues see too many children and adults every winter with burns caused by water boiled to create steam for coughs and colds.

He said the practice is dangerous because bowls of hot water can spill suddenly, causing serious injuries to areas including the face, chest, stomach and legs.

The resulting injuries sometimes require long-term treatment or surgery, with children being particularly vulnerable.

"Every year, we at the Welsh Burns Centre unfortunately see too many children and adults with burns sustained from boiling water linked to inhaling steam," he said.

"Many of the injuries have required admission to hospital and some have gone on to require surgery and skin grafting.