Hot springs have wonderful health benefits, but it's not suitable for everyone, at any time, or in any manner. While hot springs are a gift of nature, they can also be a powerful stimulus.
"Who should avoid hot springs?" "Is it safe during pregnancy?" "Can I go if I have a heart condition?" "What about after drinking?"
This article provides a detailed medical perspective on the precautions for hot springs. It's a complete guide to enjoying hot springs safely.
People Who Should Avoid Hot Springs (Contraindications)
Absolute Contraindications: Absolutely Avoid Bathing
1. Acute Diseases (Especially with Fever)
Fever (37.5°C or higher), influenza, acute infections. The rise in body temperature can worsen the condition.
2. Active Tuberculosis
Risk of worsening the infection and spreading it to others.
3. Malignant Tumors
Increased blood circulation may raise the risk of metastasis.
4. Severe Heart Disease
Severe heart failure, unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction (within 3 months). It places a significant burden on the heart and is dangerous.
5. Respiratory Failure
Steam and high temperatures can worsen breathing difficulties.
6. Renal Failure
Risk of imbalance in body fluids.
7. Hemorrhagic Diseases
Vomiting blood, bloody stools, and other bleeding. Increased blood circulation can lead to more bleeding.
8. Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Diseases
Avoid during unstable periods of the condition.
Relative Contraindications: Consult a Doctor First
Severe anemia, early and late pregnancy, menstruation (heavy bleeding), severe hypertension, severe diabetes. In these cases, always consult a doctor before bathing.
Bathing in Hot Springs During Pregnancy
Previous Beliefs and Current Understanding
Previously, hot springs were prohibited during pregnancy, but since 2014, the Ministry of the Environment's guidelines on hot spring therapy have removed "pregnancy (especially early and late stages)" from the list of contraindications.
Precautions for Hot Springs During Pregnancy
If you're in a stable period (5 to 7 months pregnant) and feeling well, short baths (5 to 10 minutes) in lukewarm hot springs (38 to 40°C) are acceptable.
However, caution is needed during early pregnancy (morning sickness period) and late pregnancy (when the belly is large). Avoid long baths and be careful of slipping. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, be sure to consult a doctor.
Precautions for People with Heart Disease and Hypertension
Effects of Hot Springs on the Heart
Hot springs place a burden on the heart. A resting heart rate of 60 to 80 beats per minute can increase to 100 to 120 beats per minute in hot springs. Blood pressure rises immediately after bathing, decreases during bathing, and rises again after exiting. This rapid fluctuation is dangerous.
Additionally, sweating can concentrate the blood, increasing the risk of thrombosis.
Bathing Safely
If you have heart disease or hypertension, consult a doctor first. Lukewarm hot springs at 38 to 40°C are ideal, and avoid hot water (42°C or higher). Limit bathing to short durations of 5 to 10 minutes, and long baths are strictly prohibited.
Do not stand up suddenly; enter and exit the bath slowly. Drink water before and after bathing to prevent dehydration.
Why Bathing After Drinking is Dangerous
Absolutely Avoid
Many accidental deaths during bathing are related to bathing after drinking. This is a statistical fact. I have personally witnessed people collapsing after bathing post-drinking at hot spring facilities. It is truly dangerous.
Why is it Dangerous?
Alcohol dilates blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Hot springs further dilate blood vessels. As a result, blood pressure can drop sharply, posing a risk of fainting.
Alcohol has a diuretic effect, and hot springs cause sweating. Severe dehydration can lead to impaired consciousness.
When intoxicated, it's difficult to notice changes in physical condition, increasing the risk of drowning. Additionally, alcohol and hot water place an excessive burden on the heart.
The Correct Order
"A drink after the hot spring" is wonderful. "A drink before the hot spring" is absolutely not. Avoid bathing for at least 2 to 3 hours after drinking. Bathe only after the alcohol has completely worn off.
Timing of Meals and Bathing
Avoid Bathing Immediately After Meals
Immediately after eating (within 30 minutes), blood is concentrated in the digestive organs. Bathing in this state can cause blood to disperse to the body surface, leading to indigestion.
The ideal time is 30 minutes to 1 hour after a meal, when digestion has lightly progressed and there is still a feeling of fullness.
Bathing on an Empty Stomach is Also Dangerous
When hungry, blood sugar levels are low. Bathing can further lower blood sugar, posing a risk of dizziness or fainting. Have a light snack before bathing.
Precautions for Bathing Duration and Frequency
Long Baths are Counterproductive
"The longer you stay, the more effective it is" is incorrect. Long baths increase fatigue, cause dehydration, and place a burden on the heart.
The ideal duration for one bath is 10 to 15 minutes. Keep it within 20 minutes at most.
Frequency of Bathing in a Day
2 to 3 times a day is ideal. More than that places a significant burden on the body. Especially for the elderly or those with low stamina, limit it to 1 to 2 times a day.
Risks Due to Temperature
Hot Springs that are Too Hot
High-temperature springs above 42°C place a significant burden on the heart. Blood pressure rises sharply, and heart rate increases. The elderly and those with heart disease need to be particularly cautious.
40 to 42°C is the most effective and safe temperature.
Cold Plunge Baths that are Too Cold
Cold plunge baths after a sauna are wonderful, but those with heart disease or hypertension need to be cautious. Sudden temperature changes place a significant burden on the heart.
Temperature Differences Between Changing Rooms and Bathrooms
The Danger of Heat Shock
In winter, if changing rooms or bathrooms are cold, there is a risk of "heat shock." Sudden temperature changes can cause blood pressure to rise and fall sharply, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes.
Prevention Methods
Warm up the changing room and bathroom. Warm your body with a shower before entering the bath. Exit the bath slowly.
Precautions for the Elderly
Reasons for Special Caution
The elderly have decreased heart and vascular function. Their ability to adapt to temperature changes is weak. They have a higher risk of falling. They are more prone to dehydration.
Safe Bathing Methods
Use lukewarm hot springs (38 to 40°C) for short durations (5 to 10 minutes). If possible, bathe with family or a caregiver. Use non-slip mats. Ensure adequate hydration.
Precautions for Children
Children are More Sensitive Than Adults
Children have smaller bodies and weaker adaptability to temperature changes. They are prone to overheating and dehydration.
Safe Bathing Methods
Use lukewarm hot springs (38 to 40°C) for short durations (within 5 to 10 minutes). Always have an adult accompany them. Ensure frequent hydration.
Precautions Based on Spring Quality
Strongly Acidic Springs
Strong irritation to the skin. Those with sensitive skin should rinse off with fresh water after bathing. Avoid long baths.
Sulfur Springs
Metal accessories may discolor. Remove them before bathing. Some people may feel unwell due to the strong smell.
Radioactive Springs
Some opinions suggest avoiding them during pregnancy. Consult a doctor.
Bathing for People with Chronic Illnesses
Diabetes
Avoid when blood sugar levels are unstable. Avoid immediately after insulin injections. Be cautious of hypoglycemia.
Asthma
The smell of sulfur springs may trigger an attack. Caution is needed.
Atopic Dermatitis
Some spring qualities may worsen the condition. Consult a doctor first.
If You Notice Any Changes While Bathing
Exit Immediately
If you feel dizzy, nauseous, have palpitations, a headache, or difficulty breathing, exit the bath immediately. Not overexerting yourself is most important.
Inform Those Around You
Don't endure it alone; inform those around you or the facility staff.
Take a Break
Lie down in a cool place and hydrate. If you don't recover, seek medical attention.
10 Rules for Safe Bathing
- Bathe only when you feel well
- Never bathe after drinking
- Avoid immediately after meals or when hungry
- Choose lukewarm hot springs (38 to 42°C)
- Exit after a short time (10 to 15 minutes)
- Rinse before entering
- Enter and exit the bath slowly
- Ensure adequate hydration
- Exit immediately if you feel any changes
- Consult a doctor if you have chronic illnesses
Conclusion: Enjoy Hot Springs Safely
Hot springs have wonderful health benefits, but incorrect bathing methods can be dangerous. It's most important to consider your health, age, and chronic conditions and enjoy safely.
I have visited hot springs across Japan, always prioritizing safety. Don't overdo it, and listen to your body while bathing. This approach is the secret to enjoying hot springs for a long time.
When visiting Japan, be sure to enjoy the hot springs. However, follow the precautions in this article and enjoy safely. Hot springs are a gift of nature and should be respected.
