Heart Conditions and Tubs

Tubs can actually assist the heart to beat more efficiently while sitting back in the water and relaxing.  Since they are outdoors, don’t forget about adding a tub cover to keep out the leaves and dirt and debris out.

In general, hot tubs and saunas will act as a vasodilator, and prolonged exposure may result in some volume depletion. The elderly and those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure and those on medication should not use hot tubs.

Heart conditions and hot tubs have been associated with health issues in a negative manner due to the very nature of the hot water and how it can raise your blood pressure and alternatively drop blood pressure to very low and dangerous levels.

It is a general rule of thumb that heart conditions and hot tubs just don’t work well together and what once might have worked for one heart patient sufferer can clearly cause destruction and even loss of life in another person.

Hut tubs (or spas and jacuzzis) are large bathtubs or small pools of heated water circulated by jets of air or hot water. The high temperatures and hot circulating currents enhance heat transfer and increase the potential of death from hyperthermia.

According to the American Stroke Association, hot tubs and saunas aren’t a risk to healthy people. Even people with high blood pressure should be okay as well, as long as they have no symptoms. The heat actually relaxes the blood vessels the same as they would during a brisk walk. So, if you have to avoid moderate exercise because it results in chest pains or shortness of breath, you should also avoid a hot tub or sauna.

Heart conditions and hot tubs are also detrimental as well if you are a person whose heart rate shouldn’t be accelerated due to chest pains and shortness of breath. If you suffer from heart disease, consult with your physician first to see if hot tub bathing is appropriate for your condition.