Pros and Cons of Hot Tub Relaxation

Soaking ourselves and relaxing in a tub of hot water is one of the best ways to get a relaxed state of mind. It helps wash out stress and strain from the body. It opens the pores in our body. It also keeps away aches and pains.

Fear about hot water tubs:

1. People feared of contracting diseases like herpes or genital warts
2. These viruses cannot survive in chlorinated hot water.
3. The AIDS causing viruses also does not pose a threat in hot tubs.

The real problems caused by microbes are;

1. It promotes the growth of certain bacteria that are responsible for the formation of small red itchy bumps with pus on the body (folliculitis).
2. Some cases have reported to cause bronchitis and flu- like symptoms because of breathing in bacteria contaminated air from the water.
3. A few have even contracted Legionnaire’s disease, a fatal form of pneumonia.
4. The benches and wet towels near the hot tubs can be breeding areas for the virus causing genital herpes.

Limiting the bacterial growth:

Some small precautions are suggested to keep the tub free from bacteria;

1. Maintain the level of chlorine between 1 and 5 parts per million.
2. The pH should be around 7.5.
3. The water should be drained soon after use.
4. The filter used in the tub should be cleaned regularly.
5. The clothes used during soaking should be removed immediately.
6. Normal shower has to be taken soon after soaking.

Supplementary troubles:

These can be avoided through certain precautions.

1. Drowning has to be prevented by supervising children who are below 5 years of age.
2. The tub should be covered properly when not in use.
3. The adults are also at risk, if handled carelessly.
4. Long hairs should be tied up properly.
5. If the hair of adults gets sucked into the drain, one’s head may be pulled underwater.
6. The drain cover should be checked to be in place.
7. The water in the bath should be maintained at 40^oC or below.
8. Too much hot water make the person fall asleep. This may also cause heat stroke.

Who all should not be soaked:

• A man who’s partner is planning to get conceived, better not to go for soaking. As this may lower the sperm count.
• A pregnant lady should get advice from the doctor before soaking, as it is highly dangerous for the fetus in the first trimester.
• A person with overweight, on medication, has high BP, diabetes, etc. should be consulted with a doctor before soaking.

To enjoy a healthy soak:

A small amount of precaution can help to have a healthy soak;

1. Limit the soaking time to 15 minutes.
2. Get out of the tub, if one feels that,

• the heart is racing,
• sweating a lot,
• light- headedness
• nauseated

3. Do not soak naked.
4. Use clean , dry towels
5. Don’t soak after drinking alcohol, as alcohol dilates blood vessels, dehydrating the body, and may cause drowning
6. Don’t soak soon after a heavy workout. This may add stress to the heart. So wait for 30 minutes to cool down.

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