THE SAUNA BATH - POTENTIAL FOR PREVENTION AND THERAPY

The sauna bath with its alternating application to the body of heat an d cold, exerts a positive effect on numerous bodily functions includin g the skin, heat regulation, cardiovascular system, organs of respirat ion, nervous system, and the endocrine system. Regular sauna baths (th ronghout 4-6 weeks) lead to a health-promoting long-term effect. In th e meantime, not only has this empirical observation been confirmed by experimental and epidemiological studies, but the underlying mechanism of action involved has also been explained. As a result of habituatio n to the intensive alternating thermal stimulation of the organism, th e sauna user develops a greater resistance to such diseases as colds, 'flu, etc. Another confirmed effect of regular sauna baths is the stre ngthening of the unspecific immune system. This reduction in the body' s susceptibility to infection and the enhancement of its defence mecha nisms are brought about by adaptation of the organism to the alternati ng hot/cold stimuli, supported by a direct influence on unspecific imm unological parameters. Since the sauna bath is a relatively simple the rapeutic hydrothermal application with few side-effects, it is highly practicable both in prophylactic and therapeutic medicine for preventi ng diseases of the airways, hypotensive dysregulation and other condit ions. Note should be taken of the contraindications.