NHS and British Burn Association issue public safety warning: steam inhalation causes burns

The NHS, in collaboration with the British Burn Association, is urging the public to avoid using steam inhalation as a remedy for coughs and colds, following a rise in burn injuries linked to the practice.

Each winter, NHS hospitals treat patients – especially young children – who have sustained serious scalds and burns from accidental hot water spills during steam inhalation. The burns often affect the face, chest, tummy, and legs, sometimes requiring long-term treatment or surgery.

The risk

• Steam inhalation can lead to severe burns
• Children are particularly vulnerable
• Hot water can spill suddenly, causing serious injury

The evidence

There is no strong scientific evidence that steam inhalation helps relieve colds or blocked noses. Any relief experienced is temporary and does not speed recovery.

Safer alternatives

The NHS recommends safer and more effective ways to manage cold symptoms:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Use decongestant sprays, vapour rubs, or salt water nasal rinses
• Rest and allow your body to recover naturally

Nicole Lee, London and South East Burns Network Manager, said: “Steam inhalation continues to cause preventable injuries every year. We want to remind the public that this traditional remedy can do more harm than good – particularly for children. There are safer and more effective ways to manage cold symptoms.”

The NHS is encouraging the public to avoid using bowls of hot water for inhalation and to share this message to help prevent further injuries this winter.

For more information, visit www.nhs.uk or contact your local NHS Trust.