Risks and Precautions You Need To Know Before Bathing in Hot Spring 

Hot spring is natural hot water, typically heated by subterranean volcanic activity. Hot spring’s water must be above the temperature of its surroundings and usually hover around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. But the temperature of hot springs is most likely depends on several factors such as the heat supplied at depth, the rate at which the water flows, and if there is a mixture of cooler groundwater into the flow of hot water.

People tend to love hot spring because of its therapeutic abilities that help soothes aching muscles, and the minerals present in the water which stimulate certain bodily processes. But the fact is, hot spring water is not for everyone, and not every hot spring is similar.
Here are some of the risks you need to know before bathing and soaking in the hot spring.

Water Temperature

Did you know that children’s bodies are more prone to overheat quickly than adults? That is why checking the temperature of the water is very important. The reason why taking too much time in how water is simple. Our body temperature can rise to dangerous levels and sometimes cause dehydration.
Not all hot springs are capable to be a pool because some of these hot springs have scalding water. The extremely hot temperature is enough to cause a second-degree burn. Always test the water before getting into it.

Pregnant women are not advised to bathe in hot water, hot tub, or even sauna because it can cause neural tube defects like the brain and spinal cord damage in the baby and miscarriage.
Prolonged soaking in water can cause rising in heart rate and a drop in blood pressure. Rapid heart rates might lead to a drastic drop in blood pressure, lightheadedness, fainting, and even cardiac arrest. People with cardiovascular disorders must consult their physician before entering into hot spring water.

Sulfur That Can Be Found In Natural Hot Spring

Sulfur is a nonmetallic chemical element belonging to the oxygen group. Hydrogen sulfide might not be always bad, but high concentration has toxic effects and can be fatal due to the blocking of cellular respiratory enzymes cause cell anoxia and cell damage. For some people, sulfur can trigger an allergic reaction. Sulfur has a distinct unwanted smell. So, if the water smells like rotten eggs, do not bath into it. This is usually present to unknown wild springs.

Potential Infection Risks

Bacteria have a higher chance to grow in poorly maintained hot tubs or pools. If you have open injuries, it is safer to stay away from hot water pools like hot springs.
For example, Naegleria infection is a rare and usually fatal brain infection caused by an amoeba commonly found in freshwater lakes, rivers, and hot springs. It occurs during swimming or other water sports. Mayoclinic.org recommend to avoid warm bodies of freshwater and wearing nose clips while in the water may help prevent such infections.
Poor maintained hot spring pools can be identified when it has strong smells. A clean and well-maintained hot spring pools should be odorless.

Potential Circulatory System Problems

We have published several blogs about how hot spring water improves circulation. While this health benefit is true to many, there are still a few cases that high-temperature water will create hazards for people with existing circulatory system health problems. The American Heart Association said that, if your doctor has advised you to avoid exercise, you should stay away from long time hot baths too, since the side effects are both on your circulation are similar. Moreover, people with high blood pressure problems should avoid sudden temperature change when bathing. For example, when you jump into a cold swimming pool after soaking in hot spring, or vice versa. This will spike your blood pressure.

Summary

• Soaking in the hot spring is very relaxing and enjoyable. Its mineral water has a lot of amazing health benefits for many people. However, some people with existing health issues must take precautions for risk-free thermal bathing.
• Pregnant women are not advised to use hot spring unless approved by their doctor.
• People with circulatory system health problems, cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and low or high blood pressure should consult a doctor before soaking into hot water.
• Keep your head above the water
• Avoid overheating
• Drink plenty of water and stay dehydrated
• Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages

Conclusion

Take note that the all disadvantages and precautions listed above are not intended to scare you. It is important to be informed about the possible risks before soaking in a hot spring. Hot springs have a lot of advantages to offer especially for our health.

If you are planning to experience the health benefits of a hot spring, now is the time to do so. However, always be mindful of the precautions before bathing with geothermal water.