Understanding The Health Risks of Siting Too Long in a Hot Tub
Soaking in a hot tub can provide amazing therapeutic benefits, such as improved flexibility, reduced stress and increased relaxation—but only in moderation. Staying in too long can have detrimental effects on your health, so it’s important to understand how long is too long. We’ll go over the potential hazards, the best way to achieve the therapeutic benefits, and answer some of the frequently asked questions about hot tubs.
Potential Health Risks
Overheating
The most immediate risk of spending too long in a hot tub is overheating. The body can only withstand a certain level of heat before it becomes dangerous, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When your body temperature surpasses 104 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re at risk for heat exhaustion and hyperthermia, both of which can lead to death. Symptoms of hyperthermia include confusion, nausea, and lack of coordination.
Dehydration
It’s essential to be mindful of how much water you’ve lost while sitting in the Jacuzzi. Sweating is a natural body response that helps to cool down your core temperature, and a hot tub has the potential to make it worse. Visible signs of dehydration include dark-colored urine, dizziness and fatigue. Make sure to replenish lost fluids with plenty of water throughout the day.
Infection
The water in many public hot tubs contain chemicals and bacteria that could lead to a severe infection. Bacteria such as E.coli, staphylococcus, and pseudomonas can cause serious skin infections and respiratory illnesses. Avoid submerging your head in the hot tub and shower after use, to reduce the risk of infection.
How Long Is Too Long For a Hot Tub?
Adults
Experts from the CDC recommend staying in the hot tub for no longer than 15 minutes at a time. Any longer and you’re putting your body at risk for overheating and dehydration. Moreover, medical professionals suggest spending no more than 30 minutes total in a hot tub every day.
Children
Children are more sensitive to the dangers of a hot tub, so parents should be especially mindful of their time and temperature. Kids should not be allowed in a hot tub the same temperature as adults—no higher than 104-degrees Fahrenheit. It’s best to keep their time in the hot tub under five minutes.
Encouraging The Benefits of Hot Tubs
Regular Sessions
Instead of taking long, unsustainable sessions of hot tubs, opt for regular short ones. Taking five to ten minute breaks in the hot tub every other day gives your body time to relax, while preventing an unhealthy amount of heat exposure.
Keeping Temperature Low
Rather than cranking up the heat, consider keeping the temperature low to reduce the risks. A temperature between 92 and 96-degrees Fahrenheit is still warm enough to give the therapeutic benefits without putting your body in danger.
Staying Cool In Between
For adults, the key to avoiding overheating is to cool down in between sessions. It’s imperative to shower or jump in a pool to get your body down to a safe temperature before getting in the hot tub for another break.
People Also Ask
How hot should a hot tub be?
Most hot tubs are comfortable between 92 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything higher can become a safety hazard.
What happens if you stay in a hot tub too long?
Staying in a hot tub too long can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and confusion, caused by a potential medical condition called hyperthermia.
Can you die from being in the hot tub too long?
Yes, being in a hot tub too long can lead to an elevated body temperature, which can cause neurological damage and ultimately result in death.
How often should you replace hot tub water?
It’s recommended to replace to replace hot tub water every three to four months, or more frequently if it looks cloudy or has an unpleasant odor.
Are hot tubs good for your health?
Yes, hot tubs are generally thought to provide a variety of health benefits including improved flexibility, relaxation, and reduced stress. However, it’s best to take precaution and limit your use to 15 minute sessions.
Final Words
Hot tubs are regularly used for relaxation and therapeutic purposes, but like anything else, too much can put you at risk of dangerous health issues. Stay conscious and consider the guidelines for safely using a hot tub to get all the potential benefits. And remember: safety comes first.