Does steam or a vaporizer help against an asthma attack?

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

Steam or a vaporizer can help liquefy mucus when breathing problems are due to a cold or allergy. This often makes a person feel better. The viral condition, croup, is well known for responding to humidity. Asthma, on the other hand, is caused by an overreaction of the airways, making them collapse or pinch off air flow. For this reason, steam or vaporizers occasionally add to the irritation and worsen the breathing problem.

Continue Learning about Asthma

If you battle your worst asthma symptoms at night, you could have nocturnal asthma, also called nighttime asthma. As the name implies, this is when as...

Asthma often develops in childhood. But you can get asthma at any age. Some people are diagnosed with it late in life. Asthma is a lasting condition ...

What are the treatment options for nasal polyps?

Nasal polyps are benign (noncancerous) growths that can form inside the sinuses and nasal cavity. These growths form as a result of chronic (long-term...

You likely already know that smoking is bad for your health, especially for those who have been diagnosed with asthma. Even if you don’t smoke, your h...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Features:

Condition Headquarters:

Does steam or a vaporizer help against an asthma attack?

Continue Learning about Asthma