HOT TUBS HAVE BECOME SYNONYMOUS WITH RELAXATION and indulgence. They offer a luxurious retreat from the stresses of everyday life. While these heated havens may seem like the epitome of comfort, it is crucial to be aware of their potential health hazards. Today, we look at some hot tub perils (4 bubbling perils of relaxation).
I am not an aquaholic but I rank soaking in a hot tub as one of life’s great joys. I often look forward to soaking in a hotel hot tub while on vacation.
In this essay, we will explore four dangers associated with using hot tubs: the risks of steam-induced illnesses, waterborne infections, the dreaded rash, and the wooziness induced by excessive heat.
“There must be quite a few things a hot bath won’t cure, but I don’t know many. Whenever I’m sad I’m going to die, or so nervous I can’t sleep, or in love with somebody I won’t be seeing for a week, I slump down just so far, and then I say: ‘I’ll take a hot bath.’
I meditate in the bath. The water needs to be very hot, so hot you can barely stand putting your foot in it. Then you lower yourself, inch by inch, till the water’s up to your neck.
I remember the ceiling over every bathtub I’ve stretched out in. I remember the texture of the ceilings and the cracks and the colors and the damp spots, and the light fixtures. I remember the tubs, too: the antique griffin-legged tubs, the modern coffin-shaped tubs, and the fancy pink marble tubs overlooking indoor lily ponds, and I remember the shapes and sizes of the water taps and the different sorts of soap holders.
I never feel so much myself as when I’m in a hot bath.”
― Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar
Four Bubbling Perils of Hot Tubs
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 208 illness outbreaks between 2015 and 2019 associated with recreational water. Most cases appeared to be associated with public swimming pools, hot tubs, and water playgrounds.
These outbreaks resulted in 3,646 illnesses, 286 hospitalizations, and 13 deaths. The majority of outbreaks happened in the summer months. Health experts suspect the actual numbers are significantly higher, given many illnesses go unreported.
Hot tubs can be particularly problematic for those on vacation. One in three water-linked outbreaks appeared to be connected to resorts or hotels. Of these outbreaks, seven out of 10 were associated with hot tubs.
1. Steam-induced Illnesses.
The warm steam rising from hot tubs can be a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to potential respiratory issues.
Inhalation of contaminated steam can cause respiratory infections, such as Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. Individuals can get Legionnaires’ disease or Pontiac fever when they breathe in small water droplets in the air that contains Legionella.
Legionnaires’ disease symptoms may include high fever, cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Approximately one in 10 individuals who get sick from Legionnaires’ disease will die.
It is important to ensure that hot tubs are adequately maintained, regularly disinfected, and properly ventilated to minimize the risk of steam-induced illnesses.
2. Waterborne Infections
Hot tubs are notorious for harboring various waterborne pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Insufficient chlorine or bromine levels and improper pH balance can promote the growth of these microorganisms, posing a significant health risk to hot tub users.
Common waterborne infections include urinary tract infections (UTIs), folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), and gastrointestinal illnesses. Fortunately, such infections are uncommon.
For UTIs, the cause is often Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the same bacteria that causes a hot tub rash. Insufficiently treated can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing a life-threatening infection (urosepsis).
It is crucial to maintain proper water chemistry, including regular disinfection and pH monitoring, while ensuring proper filtration and circulation to mitigate these perils.
3. The Dreaded Rash
One of the most unpleasant consequences of hot tub usage is the infamous hot tub rash, scientifically known as Pseudomonas dermatitis. This itchy, red rash is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium commonly found in hot tubs.
When the bacterium penetrates the hair follicles, it can result in a rash resembling acne or small, red bumps. Proper hot tub maintenance, adequate sanitization, and regular water testing can significantly reduce the risk of developing this unsightly and uncomfortable condition.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that symptoms include a red, itchy, and bumpy rash. Some people may experience pus-filled blisters around hair follicles.
Fortunately, mild rashes typically resolve within a few days without medical intervention. However, if the rash worsens or you have multiple incidences, please consult a healthcare provider.
Reducing hot tub rash risk
The CDC adds that you can reduce hot tub rash risk by doing the following:
- Remove your swimsuit and shower with soap after getting out of the water, especially in hot tubs/spas.
- Wash your swimsuit after using it.
- Use test strips to check the water in the hot tub/spa or pool yourself for adequate disinfectant level and pH.
4. Wooziness Induced by Excessive Heat
The elevated temperatures within hot tubs can lead to a range of physiological effects on the human body. Prolonged exposure to high heat can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting, especially in individuals sensitive to heat or prone to dehydration.
Mayo Clinic (USA) researchers had six volunteers soak in 104F-degree water (the recommendation for hot tubs) and 106.7-degree water for 21 minutes to assess any ill effects. Here are the research findings:
Higher temperatures posed little health risk. But when subjects stood up to exit the tub, systolic blood pressure dropped dramatically, nearly twice as much in the hotter water compared to the 104-degree temperature.
The hotter temperatures resulted in less blood flow to the brain. This change can result in fainting and associated injury by falling or drowning. The authors note that in an earlier study of 36 hot tub deaths, drowning appeared to cause 25.
The researchers remind us that the problem can be avoided by limiting hot tub time to 10 to 15 minutes, keeping the water temperature to no more than 104 degrees, and getting out of the hot tub slowly. If there are steps, get out and sit on a step until your head clears. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, lie down and elevate your feet.
Drinking alcohol while using a hot tub can also combine with the heat to lower blood pressure and impair judgment.
Key points — Hot Tub Troubles: 4 Bubbling Perils of Relaxation
Question. Are there perils associated with relaxing in a hot tub?
Findings. Hot tubs have at least four dangers: 1) the risks of steam-induced illnesses, 2) waterborne infections, 3) the dreaded rash, and 4) wooziness induced by excessive heat.
Meaning. While hot tubs can be a joy, it is essential to recognize their potential health perils. Steam-induced illnesses, waterborne infections, hot tub rashes, and wooziness induced by excessive heat are four significant dangers associated with hot tub usage.
Regular maintenance, proper sanitization, adherence to water chemistry guidelines, and personal awareness of heat tolerance are paramount to mitigate these risks. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, hot tub enthusiasts can continue to enjoy the relaxation and rejuvenation they seek without compromising their health and well-being.
The information I provide in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information in this blog.
Thank you for reading “Hot Tub Perils.”
