Observations on the effect of immersion in Bath spa water. Issue 6511 (21st December 1985)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: O'Hare, J P; Heywood, A; Summerhayes, C; Lunn, G; Evans, J M; Walters, G; Corrall, R J; Dieppe, P A
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 291:Issue 6511(1985)
• Page Start: 1747
• Page End: 1751
• Publication Date: 1985-12-21
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.291.6511.1747
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : Immersion in water in spas has been practised for centuries and has many proponents. Despite fierce debate about its efficacy there has been little scientific evaluation of the effect of immersion in mineral waters. Eight normal subjects were immersed in Bath spa water for two hours and the renal, haematological, and cardiovascular responses were compared with those in the control periods before and after immersion. Significant, twofold diuresis and natriuresis, 5% haemodilution, and a 50% increase in cardiac index were observed in subjects immersed, sitting, in Bath spa water at 35 degrees C. These changes may constitute part of the scientific rationale for spa treatment in many states of disease.