What dangers does surgeon Jeremy Yarrow warn about regarding steam inhalation?

Jeremy Yarrow warns about severe burns caused by accidental spills of boiling water during steam inhalation, particularly affecting children.

Is steam inhalation effective for treating coughs and colds, according to the Cochrane review?

No, a Cochrane medical review found no clear benefits for using steam inhalation to treat common illnesses.

What are the recommended steps if a burn injury occurs, according to the Welsh Burns Centre?

If a burn occurs, remember the 3Cs: Cool the burn for 20 minutes, Call for help (999, 111, or GP), and Cover loosely.

Home / Health / Surgeon Warns: Steam Inhalation Burns Can Scar

Surgeon Warns: Steam Inhalation Burns Can Scar

5 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Steam inhalation causes severe burns requiring surgery.
Evidence for steam inhalation benefits remains weak.
Hot water bottles also pose burn risks, need care.

Surgeon Warns: Steam Inhalation Burns Can Scar

A prominent surgeon has issued a critical warning about the dangers of steam inhalation, a frequent home remedy for common colds and respiratory infections. This practice has led to numerous severe burn injuries, particularly among children, necessitating hospital admissions and often surgical intervention.

Consultant surgeon Jeremy Yarrow of the NHS Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery emphasized that evidence supporting the effectiveness of steam inhalation is weak and unproven. He advises the public to avoid this method and opt for over-the-counter or prescribed treatments instead.

The article also underscores the risks associated with hot water bottles, reporting an increase in scald injuries. Simple precautions, such as checking the bottle's age and using cooled water, are recommended to prevent painful burns.

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