Expert: Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator - 3/7/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi marc,
I have been suffering from asthma since last four years. I want to ask you if steam inhalation helps or aggravates asthma. I have read on many sites that it helps. But my asthma gets aggravated after taking steam.
Maybe I am making some mistake while inhaling steam. I will be very grateful if you help me sort this out. I think steam inhalation can be of lifelong help if I am able to take it right.
thanks
rahul

ANSWER: Hi Rahul,

With a lot of mucus congestion, getting into a shower is good, since the added humidity increases the flow of the mucus, making it easier to clear out.

Also, using a steam humidifier over a cool mist is the preferred device. The mist coming from a steam humidifier is sterile, whereas, unless extremely diligent in cleaning procedures on a regular basis, a cool mist unit will build up bacteria and mold, which then get thrown into the air. Neither is desirable.

I don't recommend direct steam inhalation, since that will inflame the air passages, making them more swollen. The issue I have is not knowing how hot these units get. Is it a warm vapor mist, or is it truly steam. Warm mist, okay, live steam...no. Another issue here, since I'd hope it would be a warm mist, goes back to the ability to keep the unit clean. If mold develops in the unit, you are directly throwing it into the airways. Mold is a very strong trigger for asthma attacks. That may be where you problem lies.

Finally, it is important to always take in fluids. In hot weather, you can get dehydrated, which will make the mucus secretions thicker, and breathing worse. In the winter, the cold, dry air will directly dry out the lungs, making the secretions thicker. In addition to increased fluids in cold, dry air, wearing a mask or scarf that covers the mouth and nose will warm the air, and help maintain moisture.

Hope this helps you.

Sincerely,

Marc

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your great response Marc. You have solved a major problem for me. I need to stop inhaling steam immediately and I used to take direct hot steam over an electric jug and there is also mold in it. It opens my nasal passages but chest gets more congested.
I would like to ask you another question Marc. I run everyday and it helps keep my asthma in check. But I run on sand ground(not the beach sand but playground sand). Can there be problem with an asthmatic running on sand. Running on road is tough as there is so much traffic. If I stop running, asthma goes totally out of control.
Thanks for your wonderful reply.

Answer
Hi Rahul,

The exercise is great, my only concern would be on windy days which would stir up a lot of dust that may irritate your airways. It would be rather awkward wearing a face mask to keep the dust out. In addition, be sure that you fluid load beginning an hour prior to running, and have water/fluids with you during your run. Of course, be sure to do a proper warm-up before running, and a cool-down at the end.

A pre-treatment medication may also help you. In the US it is called Intal (Cromolyn). It is an inhaler that stabilizes the lung cells from reacting to triggers. Unlike salbuterol, it does not increase heart rate, and it won't interfere with using your rescue inhaler. You take it about 20 minutes before exercise.

Hope this helps you.

Good luck!

Sincerely,

Marc