Steam is not a recommended treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While steam inhalation may temporarily relieve symptoms such as congestion and coughing, it is not an effective treatment for the underlying condition and may actually worsen some COPD symptoms.
In fact, steam inhalation can be harmful for some people with COPD. The hot steam can cause irritation and swelling in the airways, which can make breathing more difficult. It can also cause dryness in the airways, which can increase coughing and make it more difficult to clear mucus from the lungs.
If you have COPD, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle modifications. Your healthcare provider may also recommend the use of certain medical devices, such as a nebulizer or inhaler, to help manage your symptoms.
