Hot tubs have many health benefits that are both physical and mental. Apart from reducing stress, pain and soothing aching muscles, they are a fantastic social activity for family and friends as well. There are, however, a few risks associated with owning a hot tub.
Like anything in life, hot tubs have their pros and cons. This article will explore both the benefits and the risks of owning a hot tub.
The benefits of owning a hot tub
Relax/de-stress
When you think of being in a hot tub, what comes to mind? Most people find hot tubs an excellent way to relax and de-stress. Hot tubs reduce the intensity of headaches and transform your backyard to an oasis of pleasure and relaxation.
Whether you choose to use your spa after a long day of work, a stressful day or you’re just a weekend warrior, you’ll always have the comfort of your hot tub to soak in and let the tension melt away.
Pain reduction
Did you know hot tubs are known to help with Arthritis, Fibromyalgia in addition to muscle tension?
Many people have also reported that soaking in a hot tub reduces their pain and improves mobility when dealing with scar tissue.
Stiffness
Soaking in hot water can help with muscle stiffness by improving your circulation. When you’re immersed in hot water your heart rate increases which means you pump more blood through your muscles allowing for a quicker recovery.
Soak whenever your feeling muscle soreness or stiffness in order to get rid of it as quickly as possible.
Social event
Of course, this may not be a reason for everyone, but for many people, a hot tub is another excuse to invite friends and family over.
“Hey, come on over for a hot tub!”
Soaking in the tub becomes a social event and gathering where many memories are made.
The risks of owning a hot tub
You didn’t think this article was going to be all roses and sunshine did you?!
Believe it or not, there are many risks associated with owning a hot tub. As the owner, it’s important to be aware of every type of scenario in order to protect those you care about.
Here are a few of the most important things you should know.
Infections
The threat of harmful bacteria is very real if you’re not maintaining your hot tub. Unbalanced water can breed bacteria, which can lead to bacterial infections such as Folliculitis.
Setting general usage rules (like showering before entering the hot tub) is one way to prevent bacteria from breeding in your tub of pleasure. Checking your water balance every two or three days is the safest way to promote clean and clear water in your hot tub.
Never enter a hot tub that is filled with cloudy or green water.
Pregnancy
Although pregnant women can enter a hot tub, it’s recommended that the temperature not exceed 37°C (100°F). It also recommended that pregnant women limit themselves to 10-minutes total soak time.
Hot tubs raise the internal body temperature, which can lead to some complications with the fetus developing properly. Limit soak time, reduce temperature or don’t risk bathing while pregnant.
Heart risks
Those who have heart-related health problems should avoid soaking in a hot tub.
As body temperature rises, so does your heart rate.
Your blood vessels widen as a response to keep your body cooler and as a result, your blood pressure drops.
It’s better to avoid taking a risk that could prove fatal.
Children
Be sure to childproof your hot tub to prevent accidental drowning by always covering your spa when it’s not in use. Make use of enclosures to fence off the area from small children to prevent them from falling in.
No small child should use the hot tub unless they can stand on the bottom with their head above water. It is generally recommended to limit the time your child spends in the hot tub to 5-10 minutes.
