What is tuob or steam inhalation therapy?
Tuob is an age-old technique where people cover their heads with a tower over a pan filled with hot water. Inhaling hot steam for several minutes.
Fact:
Moisturises dry, irritated nasal and throat passages making them more comfortable.
Myths:
It is not a cure for COVID.
It can not kill the CORONAVIRUS.
It is not a prevention for COVID.
Note:
Heat at 56 C kills the SARS coronavirus at around 10000 units per 15 min (WHO 2020).
There no way for hot steam to reach the whole respiratory epithelium at a sustained and constant level of heat. The moisture only reaches the upper airways, like the nose and throat, but not the bronchi and lungs. Hot steam can not kill SARS-COV2. Also, our cells can not tolerate heat above 41 C, beyond that it will cause cellular damage.
Danger of Tuob / Adverse Effect:
Burns!
The British Journal of General Practice published a study stating that the number one adverse effect of steam inhalation therapy is burns. Most victims were children and they needed skin grafting often than adults.
In extreme heat. steam inhalation therapy can injure/burn your upper airways. Also, spills of the hot/boiling water can cause scalding injuries.
If you or your loved ones are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Trouble breathing,
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest,
- New confusion or inability to arouse,
- Bluish lips or face,
- Fever,
- Cough,
- Shortness of breath,
- Persistent tiredness.
Please seek medical help immediately.
Effective ways to prevent COVID:
- Handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Wear masks especially in public, in tight spaces, when feeling unwell.
- Observe social distancing. Distance at least 6 feet.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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