The Effect And Safety Of Sauna Suits

The National Heart Foundation cautions people with a history of heart disease against leaving a xxxl sauna suit and plunging into a cold pool or under a cold shower. The radical change in temperature can cause a sharp change in the heart rate and increase the risk of a heart attack, although this is uncommon.

In Finland the sauna is a national pastime. Most homes, offices, hotels and factories have saunas where many friendships, and even business deals, have been sealed. For the population of 5 million there are 1.5 million saunas.

Spas are also great for relaxation. According to the Arthritis Foundation of NSW, they can ease pain from arthritis and muscle strain as the warm water relaxes the muscles. But be sure to check when the spa was last cleaned and the water changed.

The National Health and Medical Research Council reports that herpes, legionnaire’s disease, chlamydia and gastro-intestinal infections have been passed on through unclean spas and swimming pools. The most common ailment that is passed on is a type of dermatitis called spa pool itch, which is caused by a bacteria which gets into the skin when the pores open in hot water. The result can be red, swollen, and extremely itchy skin.

Dermatologist Dr Cooper said the high amount of chlorine in spa water could irritate sensitive skin. And in hot water, skin tends to flake off and body oils and lotions come off the body more quickly.

Other common problems, according to the NH&MRC, are eye and ear infections so the NH&MRC advises people never to put their head under the water in a spa. Dr Alan Wade from the NH&MRC said spas could also be hazardous because they were heated, often becoming a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

Dr Wade warned that it was possible for sexually transmitted diseases including herpes and chlamydia to be spread in unclean spa water. In spas a lot of people group together in a small amount of water. The secret to having a soothing and safe spa is to ensure the spa or pool, and especially the filter is cleaned regularly and the water disinfected with chlorine or bromine.

Mr Max Kear, from Swim Spas Australia, said spas should be emptied at least four times a year. The filter should also be cleaned out once a week to remove oils and debris. A fully installed in-ground spa costs about $6,500. It is estimated there are 150,000 private heated spa pools and 800 public spas in Australia, plus tens of thousands of private and public swimming pools.