Thermal Baths: Benefits, Treatments, and Contraindications

I thermal baths, which in Italy can be done in many places and in practically all regions, represent a real therapy, with which you immerse yourself in a hot thermal bath (with a temperature between 36 and 38 degrees) for about 15 minutes. Then there is the rest phase, of at least another 15 minutes. Thermal baths vary based on the mineral salts they contain (from Magnesium al Calcium) and based on the pathologies for which they are indicated: gastrointestinal, gynecological and respiratory problems. A natural, pleasant and relaxing remedy, and also free of contraindications. We are talking about the thermal watersa proper a panacea for "body and soul" known since ancient times. Going to the spa, in fact, allows you to significantly reduce the use of conventional medicines in the treatment of numerous pathologiesNumerous studies, over the years, have confirmed the numerous benefits of spas. In particular, these treatments are recommended for the treatment of respiratory diseases but also, in general, for their anti-inflammatory action. Suffice it to say that the World Health Organization has included thermal medicine in its objectives until 2025. For this reason, treating yourself to a few days at the spa will be an investment not only for your peace of mind but also a way to avoid wasting time and money treating seasonal ailments which can very often be easily prevented.

Index of topics

Benefits of thermal pools

Before choosing which spa to go to, you need to know that: the composition of the water varies depending on the source usedThe different concentrations of minerals cause them to be divided into sulfurous, salty, sulphate, carbonic, arsenical-ferruginous, and bicarbonate waters. In our country, we have thermal spas that host each of these different types of water; you just need to know which ones are most suitable for the specific treatments you need. Furthermore, although on average more expensive than those abroad, Italian spas generally guarantee a higher level of qualityNow let's see specifically what they are the 10 major benefits that can be derived from these treatments and how to make the most of it.

Thermal therapies

The different therapies The treatment method that uses thermal waters has an ancient name, crenotherapy, which derives from the Greek from the Greek crené, Source. Treatments are divided into two types: internal crenotherapy, which involves drinking thermal mineral water, and external crenotherapy, which uses balneotherapy, mud baths, and caves.

Vapors for respiratory diseases

An effective therapy for respiratory diseasesThis is probably the best known benefit. In fact, using inhaled vapors combats sinusitis, ear infections, and also asthma, bronchitis.
Anti-inflammatory functionThe sodium bicarbonate and sulfur, which are abundant in thermal waters, have a recognized anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, they are particularly recommended for diseases of the osteoarticular system, such as osteoarthritis, and especially for the proper functioning of joint cartilage.
They help with purification and regularity. Going to the spa and undergoing specific treatments helps the urinary system to function properly, preventing, for example, calculiThe genital system also benefits because these waters stimulate the contraction of the tubes, promoting regulation of the menstrual cycle.
They are good for the thyroid. This gland is stimulated by the presence of iodine salts, which thermal waters are generally very rich in. These salts, in fact, allow the thyroid to work at your best.
They strengthen the defenses One of the major benefits that can be gained from spa treatments is to increase the immunitary defense which promote the production of secretory and circulating immunoglobulins. A healthy way to prevent seasonal ailments.
Antiseptic properties. Immersing yourself in thermal waters allows you to give yourself a good "disinfection." The high content of halogens such as iodine and chlorine, in fact, enhances the enzymes present in white blood cells, which are our body's first defenders against bacteria.
The intestine also benefits. As mentioned previously, some thermal waters are drinkable and rich in health benefits. For this reason, they are recommended for those suffering from constipation, intestinal irregularity, and irritable bowel syndrome.
To care for the skin. Sulphurous waters, in fact, are perfect for treating chronic forms of atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.
Find peace again. In addition to treating the body, they're also a panacea for the mind. Going to the spa means taking a break from the daily grind and carving out a few hours of relaxation that will ensure lasting well-being. The ideal seasons to take advantage of it are autumn and spring but there is no shortage of offers in other periods of the year too.o.

Benefits of thermal mud

Among the spa treatments, the most important ones are: sludgeObtained from the fusion of clay and thermal water, they are applied to the body according to a program prescribed by the doctor. The benefits that can be derived from them are truly numerous. For example: They are particularly indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis, osteoarthritis and extra-articular rheumatism.

How long can you stay in the thermal water?

You shouldn't overdo it with thermal baths, otherwise you risk wasting all their benefits and even experiencing some negative consequences. But how long can you stay in thermal water, knowing it's a very healthy and enjoyable experience? Much depends on the water temperature. Thermal baths generally have a temperature around 35-36 degrees, ideal for treating, for example, mycosisIn this case, the duration of the stay can be up to fifteen minutes. The higher the temperature, the shorter the duration of the stay in the thermal waters. And when you reach 40-degree baths (boiling water, among other things, is particularly effective against canker sores), the advice is not to stay immersed for more than 6-7 minutes. In any case, after the thermal bath, a complete rest period of at least fifteen minutes is essential, for the so-called reaction. Only in this way can the benefits of the spa develop.

Controindicazioni

Thermal baths are not recommended in some specific cases, in which case it is best to avoid them:

When you have problems with low pressure or also hypertension
If you suffer from eczema, dermatitis e Psoriasis, Saline bromine iodine waters can be irritating.
When you have forms of sulfur allergies, and in this case sulphurous thermal waters should absolutely be avoided
If you have problems with calculi to the urinary tract
When you have a pathology of prostatic hypertrophy

When should you avoid thermal baths?

I thermal baths They are not suitable for people with cardiovascular problems, even mild ones. In the case of these conditions, it is advisable to consult a doctor for a definitive evaluation, and if approved, it is advisable to undergo a medical examination before entering the waters.

Thermal baths: benefits, treatments, and contraindications