Lived experiences of COVID 19 survivors using steam inhalation in the management of infection

Abstract

During the peak of COVID-19, people are turning to home remedies, such as steam inhalation, to treat their ailments since it is a feasible, self-sufficient, inexpensive and sustainable approach. Inhaling steam has been shown to alleviate clinical symptoms in individuals who are afflicted with an infection, as was seen in clinical trials. This qualitative research explores the lived experiences of COVID-19 survivors who utilized steam inhalation as a self-management strategy during their illness. Amidst the global pandemic, steam inhalation gained popularity as a potential adjunctive therapy for respiratory symptoms associated with COVID-19. The purpose of this phenomenological study will explore the lived experiences of an infected patient who has survived using steam therapy as their adjuvant management for COVID-19 infection. The selections of participants will follow certain criteria and they will be chosen conveniently to meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data was gathered through an in-depth-interview. The researcher then audiotaped, video recorded and transcribed all the interviews. Colaizzi’s thematic analysis was utilized to categorize and discern patterns. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (REC). Based on the experiences shared by the participants, the lived experiences of covid 19 survivors using steam inhalation in the management of infection were embodied in these themes: (I)lnhalation Fusion: Combining Additives and Oral Medication for Respiratory Relief; (2) Participants’ Symptoms Severity; (3) Impacts of steam inhalation in symptom management and recovery to COVID-19 as observed within the first 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours. These experiences are true for those who have experienced such phenomena. These findings cannot be applied to all Covid-19 survivors. The identified themes served as the foundation for the development of recommendation guidelines on the lived experiences of covid 19 survivors using steam inhalation in the management of infection.