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Steam Therapy Steam therapy causes body temperature to rise above its normal level of 98.6 degrees F., bringing about a state of hyperthermia, or artificial fever. Fever is one of the body's most powerful defense mechanism in fighting disease because many invading organisms have a limited tolerance to heat and cannot survive higher temperatures. Artificial fever created by steam are thought to stimulate the immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells in the body and by increasing the production of antibodies and interferon. In addition, by increasing the blood flow to the skin, it removes impurities and delivers vital nutrients, thus stimulating cellular activity and growth. Steam therapy also stimulates the cardiovascular system. It improves circulation, but does not raise blood pressure, since heat expands the blood vessels in the skin, thus permitting increased blood flow. As the heart rate increases, blood flow is diverted from the inner organs, detoxifying them in the process. During a steam session, the blood flow to the skin can increase as high at 50 to 70 percent of the cardiac output! In fact, heat speeds up all of the chemical processes in the body, making steam therapy one of the easiest ways to rid the body of toxins. As the pores of the skin open up and the sweat glands start to excrete, the body flushes itself. Perspiration contains many of the same elements as urine, and for this reason, the skin is sometimes called the third kidney. It is estimated that as much as 30 % of bodily wastes are eliminated in this way. In addition, the raised temperature reduces the growth rate of most bacteria and viruses, giving the immune system time to mobilize its own forces. Steam sessions usually last from 10 to 20 minutes, and should be followed by a lukewarm to cool shower to stimulate the body. A steam session after a workout reduces the lactic acids in muscles that cause soreness. This contributes to greater muscle elasticity and alleviates the pain of sports injuries and even helps to prevent such injuries before they occur. It also helps to relieve symptoms of arthritis. Steam Inhalation is a long-recognized and effective therapy for the treatment of common colds and sinusitis. It eases symptoms of bronchitis, allergies, and asthma by relieving the inflammation and congestion of mucous membranes. It alleviates spasmodic breathing, and serves as a natural expectorant. It relieves throat irritation by moistening the air; thus stimulating secretions of mucous membranes in the throat and lungs, keeping them from drying out. It also relaxes chest muscles and relieves coughing. In recent years, increasing attention has been focused on the beauty enhancing benefits of steam treatments. Steam is useful in improving complexion; it deeply cleanses the skin without causing dehydration prior to rinsing. As pores open and perspiration begins, tone-dulling toxins are naturally expelled, leaving behind suppler, cleaner skin. Best of all, steam therapy reduces signs of stress and fatigue, making you look and feel years younger. The result is a sense of deep relaxation of mind and body and a flushed, youthful appearance that lasts for hours after your steam session.
**Steam therapy sessions are not recommended for individuals who have heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular problems. In addition steam therapy is not recommended for pregnant women, small children or the elderly. **Steam therapy sessions are also not recommended for those who have an existing fever or an open wound. Steam therapy unavoidably elevates body temperature, refrain from a steam therapy session after rigorous exercise until your body cools to its natural temperature. **Steam therapy sessions are quick. Your maximum time in a steam session should not exceed 20 minutes. You can lose up to a pint of fluid in a 15-minute steam therapy session. Be sure to go into a steam therapy session well-hydrated and drink plenty of fluids afterwards to replace fluids lost during the steam therapy session |
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