What does halotherapy give? Halotherapy: what is this procedure, indications and contraindications, reviews


For modern medicine some confusion of concepts in the definition of the artificially created microclimate of salt caves is characteristic. It is called both a halochamber and a speleochamber or speleoclimate chamber, there are also terms such as a “living air” system or a climatic chamber.

The priority developments of Russian physiotherapy are cameras actively used in halotherapy and speleotherapy. Such treatment is included in the range of services of many sanatoriums and city medical centers.

What is halotherapy?

Halotherapy is a non-drug treatment based on the reconstruction of an artificial microclimate, as close as possible to the properties and conditions of salt caves.

Such hospitals have a special microclimate. Here there is a constant temperature, without fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, with low humidity and the complete absence of bacteria. Such a climate is called hypoallergenic due to the special property of air containing salt aerosol.

At the initial stage of the halotherapy procedure, it does not matter if this cave is natural or artificially reproduced, they give a tangible effect. So some patients note the appearance of minor discomfort, others develop weakness and, and for some, the first session gives a surge of energy and strength. The reaction of the body is purely individual in nature, but the vast majority experience vivacity and a state of lightness after 2-3 sessions.

Salt caves are equipped with sun loungers and mini gazebos with tables. Of course, the halochamber and its natural prototype differ from each other. The artificially created room has an operator and treatment room.

Particular attention is paid to visitors with bronchial problems, because. they are prone to escalating attacks precisely in the first minutes of the procedure. It takes 10 minutes for the body to adapt and return to its normal state.

The number of halotherapy sessions depends on the characteristics and severity of the disease. Usually the range varies from 10 to 25 procedures. If necessary, the course is repeated after six months.

What is the difference between halotherapy and speleotherapy?


Speleotherapy and halotherapy have much in common, especially the similarity is manifested in the physiotherapy technique.

Initially, the term "speleotherapy" described the process of healing in natural conditions on the basis of salt mines or caves. They had the ability to circulate large volumes of air, thereby maintaining a constant microclimate with a certain humidity and temperature all year round. The effectiveness of such treatment is undeniable, but getting to such places is problematic, so the idea arose of the possibility of recreating such a microclimate - unique and useful.

The air environment of the speleochamber is characterized by the reproduction of the microclimate properties of underground salt caves in potash mines. So there was a need to purchase salt material (halite and salvinite blocks and slabs), which is necessary for facing ceilings, walls and floors of treatment chambers.

As a result, the speleochamber began to be called the premises in which a unique climatic environment is created by the air flow. An amazing mechanism of flow around the salt material takes place in it, as a result of which the products of natural destruction are torn off.

Salt aerosol is a complex of halite, sylvin and carnallite, which make up about 98% of the total volume of the substance, that is, its main minerals are potassium chloride, magnesium and sodium. Potassium chloride promotes recovery contractile function and strengthening the body's defenses.

The most important factor determining the healing properties of speleotherapy procedures is practically complete absence allergens in the air. In addition, a quiet environment, without unnecessary noise and harsh sounds, creates a special atmosphere in the cell. Air ions make the air fresh and saturated, which has a positive effect on the respiratory system of visitors, gives a cozy and comfortable feeling.

For speleocameras, modern ventilation systems and air conditioning equipment. Air masses pass along the entire length of the wall, covered with a layer of natural salt, due to which a fine aerosol is obtained. It is this substance that is involved in the normalization of metabolism, an increase in red blood cells and other biochemical reactions. It is enough to breathe deeply during the speleotherapy procedure.

Halotherapy should be understood as a method of using the climatic conditions of a salt cave in an artificially created environment using sodium chloride, which is an aerosol of common salt. It is table salt that is the main and only component of such therapy.

Treatment with halotherapy became popular in the 1980s. A halochamber is a room in which the floor and walls are covered with a thin layer of edible salt. It is applied with a sprayer and is more of a decoration value. The task of this treatment is to ensure the function of a buffer humidity: the moisture that the patient releases during therapy is absorbed, thereby maintaining the optimal degree of humidity in the room. The exhaust fan will remove the accumulated moisture after the end of the procedure.

In halochambers, it is customary to create a special interior that sets you up for maximum relaxation and excludes the feeling of being in a medical institution. The medical effect is achieved by installing special equipment in the room - a dry aerosol dispenser called a halogenerator. It crushes salt particles to the state of an aerosol and provides a dosed flow of the substance into the chamber. The only component of the salt aerosol in the halochamber is sodium chloride. Salt spray saturates the air only with the help of a halogen generator.

Speleotherapy and halotherapy are climatotherapy methods that are in the same treatment area. Both cases involve the use of salt. The difference is observed in the nature of the formation of the therapeutic environment and its capabilities.

The main advantage of the speleochamber is a complex of components of salt aerosol, which contributes to a positive therapeutic effect.

According to the results of the study, the purpose of which was to assess the microclimate of the speleochamber and halochamber, it was found that healing signs The climate of speleochambers, recreated using blocks of natural potassium salts, have higher and more stable rates in treatment. Halochambers coated with common salt spray have lower therapeutic properties.

The speleological chamber in its work does not need a halogenerator, which needs overhaul at least once every five years.

A significant advantage of the speleochamber over the halochamber is the working surface of the chamber, which in the first case is fully involved, and in the second it has only a decorative function.



Modern medicine has data on the extremely beneficial effect on the human body of salts containing sodium ions and chlorides.

The main merit of halotherapy is the cleansing of organs respiratory system. Being in a salt chamber contributes to the saturation of cells with useful ions, thereby restoring lung function, and the microflora respiratory tract free from dust and harmful bacteria.

During a halotherapy session, salt air increases blood oxygen saturation, forms the body's defenses to fight infections and viruses. Salt caves are especially useful in the treatment of various ENT diseases: sinusitis, pharyngitis and bronchitis. Salt caves are effective for children who are often exposed to colds. They help to strengthen immune system both in children and adults.

Halotherapy is rightfully considered an excellent remedy for cosmetic problems. Salt procedures renew the skin, promote healing by exfoliating the keratinized layer of the skin and nourish it.

A visit to salt caves leads to a qualitative change in the intensity of blood flow to skin cells, increasing oxygen exchange at the micro level. An interesting fact is faster healing of wounds and abrasions after visiting the salt chamber. Due to this property, halotherapy is recommended for people who suffer from acne, dermatitis of various origins, psoriasis, seborrheic lesions skin and other skin diseases. Salt particles in caves have a beneficial effect on the condition hair follicles and appearance hair in general.

The benefits of salt caves in the fight against smoking are known. Especially if a heavy smoker can not part with addiction. Inhaling clean air allows such a person to compare it to tobacco smoke, and this becomes the first psychological moment on the path to a healthy lifestyle: the lungs are cleared, inflammation is reduced, and the craving for nicotine gradually fades away.

Salt caves are equipped with maximum comfort and an atmosphere that forms a psycho-emotional relief. Thus, a session of halotherapy acquires not only a healing, but also a relaxing effect.

Studies on the effectiveness of halotherapy




There are many indications for halotherapy. The main goal of such sessions is the improvement of the respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous systems person.

    Preventive measures to prevent colds: frequent acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, pneumonia, bronchitis of varying severity, etc.;

    Treatment of ENT diseases: chronic and frontal sinusitis, enlarged tonsils and their chronic inflammatory processes;

    Treatment of asthmatic manifestations: pre-asthma, "smoker's bronchitis" syndrome, recurrent tracheobronchitis, and, of course, bronchial asthma;

    decline possible complications in the initial stages of colds, such as false croup or bronchospasm. Halotherapy in these cases can reduce the viscosity of sputum, improve its separation and reduce swelling of the mucous membranes, thereby relieving symptoms, relieving suffocation and increasing bronchial patency;

    Allergic manifestations: allergies of various etiologies, including allergic and;

    Skin lesions, including atopic dermatitis and pustular manifestations on the skin, acne and hypersecretion sebaceous glands;

    For recovery in the field of cosmetology - halotherapy sessions relieve the inflammatory process;

    For diseases of cardio-vascular system: ischemia, and. It is effective to visit salt caves during the recovery period after or;

    In case of neurotic and neurosis-like states: phobic manifestations, fears, unreasonable anxious thoughts and fears. Influencing the human vegetative system, salt air contributes to its normalization in the psycho-emotional plan;

    Pollution related disease prevention environment. Areas where hazardous industries are located or when a person does not have a stable work schedule, for example, if necessary, go to night shifts, salt caves will help to cope with psycho-emotional stress, clean air will relieve fatigue and have a positive effect on an overloaded nervous system.

Contraindications for halotherapy

There are few contraindications to halotherapy, but they must be taken into account, because. visiting salt caves in the presence of chronic or infectious diseases, especially during an exacerbation or relapse, will only aggravate the situation. In addition, it is important to be aware of the possible individual intolerance to saline aerosol.

The main contraindications of halotherapy include:

    Malignant neoplasms;

    Infections before the end of the isolation period;

    Diseases with complications in the form of serious suppuration;

    The period of exacerbation of blood diseases;

"Treatment with salt" - this is how the term "halotherapy" is translated from Greek. It means a session of staying in a special room, the air of which is saturated with particles of salt. Their size is very small: only 1-5 microns. This allows the particles to create a unique microclimate and penetrate deep into the respiratory organs, providing an antibacterial effect. The room where the halotherapy takes place is so heavily saturated with salt that it is clearly felt by the taste buds: to do this, it is enough to stretch your lips with a tube and pull the air towards you.

Salt is made up of sodium and chlorine. A similar composition in many fluids in the human body. So, sodium and chlorine are present in tears, blood and urine. This is a strong argument in favor of the naturalness of halotherapy.

Where and how is halotherapy performed?

Sessions are held in the so-called halochambers (speleochambers). In the people they are better known as salt caves or rooms. Previously, they could be found mainly in sanatoriums, but recently they have become widespread in many large cities. The room has a small size and a special microclimate. It is characterized by a constant temperature, low humidity, the absence of pathogenic microflora and fluctuations in atmospheric pressure.

The artificially recreated microclimate is as close as possible to the air of natural salt caves that are underground. To do this, the floor, walls and ceiling in such rooms are lined with special blocks or other salt-containing materials. However, they are more of a decorative value. The task of such salt treatment is to provide buffer moisture. The moisture that a person emits during the procedure is absorbed by the salt, thereby maintaining the optimal humidity in the room. After the session, the ventilation system removes accumulated moisture.

The heart of any halochamber is a salt generator. It is he who produces the healing sodium chloride. Home salt lamps work on a similar principle. Using a halogenerator, you can vary the amount of useful ions in the room air.


Before visiting the salt room for the first time, experts advise asking the administrator if there is a halogenerator in it. There are cases when, during the construction of a cave, its owners save on the main thing, creating only an entourage - a floor and walls made of salt. The latter, by the way, is also only a cheap imitation. Rooms without a halogenerator have nothing to do with medicine, and there will be no benefit from visiting them.

In a salt cave, it is customary to create a special interior that sets you up for maximum relaxation and excludes the feeling of being in a medical institution. It is usually dominated by subdued light - an important condition for relaxation. Soft rocking chairs, deck chairs, TV or pleasant music contribute to the comfort of visitors.

For small children, a salt sandbox is often installed in the room.

The mechanism of the procedure is simple: a person simply takes a comfortable position in a chair and enjoys a relaxing atmosphere. It is not necessary to undress, since salt affects the body through the respiratory system. Many visitors to the salt rooms fall asleep during the procedure, which is not forbidden by experts.

The duration of a halotherapy session varies and depends on:

  • features and course of the disease;
  • patient's age;
  • related pathologies.

Typically, the duration of the procedure for adults is 40-60 minutes, and for children - no more than half an hour. Experts believe that one session in the salt room replaces three days at sea.

The treatment course of halotherapy includes 10-25 daily sessions. For preventive purposes, procedures are prescribed twice every 7-10 days. If necessary, the course is repeated after 6-8 months.

Indications

Halotherapy has proven to be effective non-drug method prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of many diseases of the respiratory system. Before the session, it is desirable to consult a specialist - a pulmonologist or an ENT specialist.

Halotherapy is primarily indicated for the following pathologies:

  • chronic bronchitis;
  • bronchial asthma;
  • bronchiectasis;
  • vasomotor and allergic rhinosinusitis;
  • chronic pharyngitis.

Halotherapy sessions have a beneficial effect on skin diseases such as psoriasis, acne, atonic dermatitis, eczema in the stabilization stage, hypersecretion of the sebaceous glands.

Halotherapy sessions help to strengthen the immune system in both children and adults.

WITH preventive purpose a visit to the salt room is recommended for people who have had influenza, SARS, pneumonia. The salt cave is also effective for children who are often exposed to colds, which is confirmed by the reviews of many parents. Halotherapy is also very useful for coughs associated with smoking.

Contraindications

Halotherapy has contraindications that must be taken into account so as not to aggravate the problem. The procedure should be abandoned if:

  • individual intolerance to salt;
  • any disease in the acute stage;
  • malignant neoplasm;
  • infectious disease;
  • bleeding of any origin and localization;
  • pregnancy at any time;
  • mental pathologies of varying severity.

The uniqueness of our clinic is that in addition to physiotherapy procedures used in the treatment of ENT diseases, we can offer rehabilitation and preventive measures that improve health and improve the quality of life.

One of these measures is the use in the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including ENT pathology, halochambers.

This is a specially created room, lined with salt materials and used in medicinal purposes with halotherapy.

What is halotherapy?

From the Greek halos (salt) - this is a kind of therapeutic, health-improving, rehabilitation and preventive procedures, the essence of which is to create a specific microclimate in an artificial environment, in its properties as close as possible to the natural conditions of underground salt caves.

The benefits of halotherapy cannot be overestimated.

The healing microclimate of the salt cave has predetermined humidity, temperature, pressure, ionic composition of the air (characteristically high content of negatively charged particles), complete absence of allergens and bacterial flora. As a result, the aerosol not only stimulates the local immunity of the respiratory tract, but also has anti-inflammatory, mucolytic, and drainage effects. Its effects such as bacteriostatic action, improvement of the local flora of the mucous membranes and increase of its resistance to external pathogenic influences have been proven.

How it works?

Aerosol particles penetrate the respiratory tract due to their small size (from 1 to 5 microns), reducing the activity of infectious and inflammatory processes in the respiratory tract. At the same time, there is an active stimulation of general and local immunity. These properties of the haloaerosol made it possible to create an almost sterile atmosphere in the halochamber.

In the course of treatment, the patient's body adapts to the characteristics of the healing microclimate, all systems and organs restructure their activities. According to some reports, one session of halotherapy is equivalent to four days at sea.

Why do coughs and snot occur after a halochamber?

Cough and runny nose after halochamber is normal. It is precisely due to the fact that salt aerosol has a mucolytic, thinning effect on sputum that has stagnated in the respiratory tract, and contributes to its outflow. The haloaerosol also liquefies and removes mucus (sputum) accumulated in the paranasal sinuses. Due to the narrowness of the nasal passages in children, rhinitis will be more pronounced. If rhinitis intensifies (appears) after the first session of halotherapy, then cough, as a rule, after the second or third session.

By the middle of treatment, the intensity of the symptoms subsides, then there is a sharp relief in the general condition and improvement in relation to the underlying disease.

Why does temperature occur after the halochamber?

The immunomodulating and immunostimulating properties of the aerosol help to fight latent infection, chronic, chronic foci of infection, the presence of which is not always known even to the patient himself. Usually deviations from the norm are small - up to 37.5 degrees. It is necessary to monitor the state of health and measure the temperature after the procedure.

What are the indications for halotherapy?

This procedure is most often used as part of the complex therapy of children and adults and children with bronchial asthma, other obstructions, frequent bronchitis (especially with a protracted form of the course). The impact of the halochamber makes it possible to reduce the frequency of antibiotic use in a frequently ill child and thereby prevent the development of dysbacteriosis and allergies.

The immunomodulating, decongestant and bacteriostatic effect of salt aerosol is especially useful for adenoids, rhinosinusopathy, frequent sinusitis and frontal sinusitis, vasomotor and allergic rhinitis, chronic pharyngitis, tonsillitis. It is very important that more than 90% of patients suffering from frequent sinusitis achieve almost complete sanitation of the paranasal sinuses.

An imbalance of the nervous system (neurocirculatory or vegetovascular dystonia) is subject to treatment in a halochamber. The unique relaxing effect reduces the external manifestations of the disease, helps to reduce the frequency of exacerbations (attacks).

For patients with skin diseases: allergic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, psoriasis, some forms of ichthyosis, psoriasis, a halochamber is recommended.

In addition, playing in our halochamber, like in a sandbox, little patients get great pleasure.

Are there any contraindications for halotherapy?

There are not many of them, but they are:

  1. Oncopathology (especially malignant)
  2. The presence of pustules (cellulitis, abscesses), bleeding ulcers or wounds

Thus, we can offer you this treatment after examination and basic treatment of many diseases of the ENT organs, which will positively affect your well-being and reduce the number of relapses in the future.

In general, a salt halochamber is a specially created room, lined with salt materials and used for medicinal purposes during halotherapy. Halotherapy (from the Greek halos - “salt”) is a type of therapeutic, health-improving, rehabilitation and preventive procedures, the essence of which is to create a specific microclimate in an artificial environment, which, in its properties, is as close as possible to the natural conditions of underground salt caves. The healing effect is achieved by saturating the room air with a highly dispersed dry aerosol of sodium chloride. According to its properties, salt aerosol belongs to effective natural hypobacterial, hypoallergenic and ionizing substances. It inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms, fungi, pathogens of inflammatory and other diseases, and also has a unique positive psychotherapeutic effect on the human body.

Treatment in a halochamber

The course of procedures in the halochamber has a pronounced healing effect on all organ systems, patients experience an improvement in the general protective background of the body, adaptive and functional capabilities, an increase in immunity and stress resistance. Halotherapy is used as a reliable means to avoid the occurrence of chronic diseases, a means of primary prevention. But also a course of procedures in a salt chamber helps prevent complications of various chronic pathologies, prolongs the period of remission, and contributes to the treatment of diseases. internal organs medium and light weight.

Indications for the use of halotherapy

Due to their unique antiseptic properties, highly dispersed salt aerosols are used in the treatment inflammatory diseases ears, throat, oral and nasal cavities, lungs and upper respiratory tract. Halotherapy is practiced as a prevention of chronic diseases of the respiratory system, SARS, influenza, in the treatment of allergic conditions, skin diseases. A course of preventive treatment is especially recommended for people predisposed to developing lung diseases and workers in hazardous industries. Here are the main medical indications for using a halochamber:

  • Chronic obstructive bronchitis in the stage of remission not higher than the 2nd degree of pulmonary and 1st degree of heart failure;
  • Pre-asthmatic condition;
  • Bronchial asthma in the stage of fading exacerbation and remission is not higher than the 2nd degree of pulmonary and 1st degree of heart failure;
  • hay fever;
  • Neurocirculatory dystonia with a tendency to hyperventilation and moderate vascular instability;
  • Allergic vasomotor rhinitis in remission;
  • Neurodermatitis and atopic dermatitis;
  • Eczema in remission;
  • Tracheobronchitis;
  • chronic fatigue syndrome;
  • Increased sensitivity to stress;
  • Nervous disorders that do not require serious medical treatment.

Contraindications to the use of halotherapy

In general, halotherapy is not applicable in severe forms of diseases, in acute relapses and exacerbations, in case of individual intolerance to the components of salt aerosol. The following contraindications can be distinguished:

  • mental illness;
  • Tuberculosis in the active stage;
  • Any form of drug and toxicological addictions;
  • Infectious diseases in the acute stage and before the expiration of the isolation period;
  • Diseases with acute purulent complications;
  • Malignant formations, tumors;
  • Diseases complicated by bleeding of any nature;
  • Blood diseases in the acute stage.

Halochamber equipment

Halochambers are rooms lined with salt materials. For the arrangement, blocks or slabs cut from the salt layer, special bricks and plaster made from evaporated salt are used. But also one of the most important conditions for creating a microclimate, similar in properties to a natural cave, requires strict regulation of temperature and humidity. There is a list additional equipment, which is used to increase the efficiency of the halochamber and create optimal health conditions.

Equipment
  • Relaxation chairs;
  • Salt coating for walls, ceiling and floor;
  • Aerosolgenerator (halogenerator);
  • Heater or electric cable for heating;
  • Air cooling system in summer;
  • Exhaust ventilation.
Construction material
  • Brick made of evaporated salt;
  • Blocks and slabs carved from the salt bed;
  • Salt plaster.
Consumables
  • Highly dispersed powder based on sodium chloride for aerosol generators.

Buy halochamber

The price of a halochamber depends on the size of the room and equipment. The complete set of a medical halochamber differs in type, device, and design of the room. The cost of such therapeutic equipment will also depend on the set of additional and basic devices, the number of people for which the halochamber will be designed. In addition to the basic equipment, there are often special decorative elements: quantum lamps, salt sculptures and bas-reliefs, media devices for playing relaxing music.

  • Salt coating of walls - 50,000 rubles;
  • Decorated salt ceiling - 5,000 rubles;
  • Salt block floor - 13,000 rubles;
  • Aerosol generator - 200,000 rubles;
  • Ventilation equipment - 38,000 rubles;
  • Quantum lamps - 7,500 rubles;
  • Air purifier-ionizer - 8,500 rubles;
  • Relaxing chairs - 8,000 rubles.

On average, the price of arranging a halochamber in the domestic market is 300,000-350,000 rubles.

Products: Products from Himalayan salt for halochambers

Below are products made of Himalayan salt for equipment of halochambers.

Salt slabs, salt tiles, Himalayan salt discs for halochambers

Salt panel

What is halotherapy?

Halotherapy is a non-drug treatment based on the reconstruction of an artificial microclimate, as close as possible to the properties and conditions of salt caves.

Such hospitals have a special microclimate. Here there is a constant temperature, without fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, with low humidity and the complete absence of bacteria. Such a climate is called hypoallergenic due to the special property of air containing salt aerosol.

At the initial stage of the halotherapy procedure, it does not matter if this cave is natural or artificially reproduced, they give a tangible effect. So some patients note the appearance of minor discomfort, others develop weakness and dizziness, and for some, the first session gives a surge of energy and strength. The reaction of the body is purely individual in nature, but the vast majority experience vivacity and a state of lightness after 2-3 sessions.

Salt caves are equipped with sun loungers and mini gazebos with tables. Of course, the halochamber and its natural prototype differ from each other. The artificially created room has an operator and treatment room.

Particular attention is paid to visitors with bronchial asthma, as they are prone to bouts of intensifying coughing in the first minutes of the procedure. It takes 10 minutes for the body to adapt and return to its normal state.

The number of halotherapy sessions depends on the characteristics and severity of the disease. Usually the range varies from 10 to 25 procedures. If necessary, the course is repeated after six months.

What is the difference between halotherapy and speleotherapy?

Speleotherapy and halotherapy have much in common, especially the similarity is manifested in the physiotherapy technique.

Initially, the term "speleotherapy" described the process of healing in natural conditions on the basis of salt mines or caves. They had the ability to circulate large volumes of air, thereby maintaining a constant microclimate with a certain humidity and temperature all year round. The effectiveness of such treatment is undeniable, but getting to such places is problematic, so the idea arose of the possibility of recreating such a microclimate - unique and useful.

The air environment of the speleochamber is characterized by the reproduction of the microclimate properties of underground salt caves in potash mines. So there was a need to purchase salt material (halite and salvinite blocks and slabs), which is necessary for facing ceilings, walls and floors of treatment chambers.

As a result, the speleochamber began to be called the premises in which a unique climatic environment is created by the air flow. An amazing mechanism of flow around the salt material takes place in it, as a result of which the products of natural destruction are torn off.

Salt aerosol is a complex of halite, sylvin and carnallite, which make up about 98% of the total volume of the substance, that is, its main minerals are potassium chloride, magnesium and sodium. Potassium chloride helps to restore the contractile function of the heart and strengthen the body's defenses.

The most important factor determining the healing properties of speleotherapy procedures is the almost complete absence of allergens in the air. In addition, a quiet environment, without unnecessary noise and harsh sounds, creates a special atmosphere in the cell. Air ions make the air fresh and saturated, which has a positive effect on the respiratory system of visitors, gives a cozy and comfortable feeling.

Speleological chambers use modern ventilation systems and air conditioning equipment. Air masses pass along the entire length of the wall, covered with a layer of natural salt, due to which a fine aerosol is obtained. It is this substance that is involved in the normalization of metabolism, reducing blood pressure, an increase in red blood cells and other biochemical reactions. It is enough just to breathe deeply during the procedure of steleotherapy.

Halotherapy should be understood as a method of using the climatic conditions of a salt cave in an artificially created environment using sodium chloride, which is an aerosol of common salt. It is table salt that is the main and only component of such therapy.

Treatment with halotherapy became popular in the 1980s. A halochamber is a room in which the floor and walls are covered with a thin layer of edible salt. It is applied with a sprayer and is more of a decoration value. The task of this treatment is to ensure the function of buffer humidity: the moisture that the patient releases during therapy is absorbed, thereby maintaining the optimal degree of humidity in the room. The exhaust fan will remove the accumulated moisture after the end of the procedure.

In halochambers, it is customary to create a special interior that sets you up for maximum relaxation and excludes the feeling of being in a medical institution. The medical effect is achieved by installing special equipment in the room - a dry aerosol dispenser called a halogenerator. It crushes salt particles to the state of an aerosol and provides a dosed flow of the substance into the chamber. The only component of the salt aerosol in the halochamber is sodium chloride. Salt spray saturates the air only with the help of a halogen generator.

Speleotherapy and halotherapy are climatotherapy methods that are in the same treatment area. Both cases involve the use of salt. The difference is observed in the nature of the formation of the therapeutic environment and its capabilities.

The main advantage of the speleochamber is a complex of components of salt aerosol, which contributes to a positive therapeutic effect.

According to the results of the study, the purpose of which was to assess the microclimate of the speleochamber and halochamber, it was found that the therapeutic signs of the climate of the speleochambers, recreated using blocks of natural potassium salts, have higher and more stable indicators in treatment. Halochambers coated with common salt spray have lower therapeutic properties.

The speleochamber in its work does not need a halo generator, which needs major repairs at least once every five years.

A significant advantage of the speleochamber over the halochamber is the working surface of the chamber, which in the first case is fully involved, and in the second it has only a decorative function.

Benefits of halotherapy

Modern medicine has data on the extremely beneficial effect on the human body of salts containing sodium ions and chlorides.

The main merit of halotherapy is to cleanse the organs of the respiratory system. Being in a salt chamber helps to saturate the cells with useful ions, thereby restoring lung function, and the microflora of the respiratory tract is cleared of dust and harmful bacteria.

During a halotherapy session, salt air increases blood oxygen saturation, forms the body's defenses to fight infections and viruses. Salt caves are especially useful in the treatment of various ENT diseases: sinusitis, pharyngitis and bronchitis. Salt caves are effective for children who are often exposed to colds. They help to strengthen the immune system, both in children and adults.

Halotherapy is rightfully considered an excellent remedy for cosmetic problems. Salt procedures renew the skin, promote healing by exfoliating the stratum corneum and nourish it.

A visit to salt caves leads to a qualitative change in the intensity of blood flow to skin cells, increasing oxygen exchange at the micro level. An interesting fact is the faster healing of wounds and abrasions after visiting the salt chamber. Due to this property, halotherapy is recommended for people who suffer from acne, dermatitis of various origins, psoriasis, seborrheic lesions of the skin and other skin diseases. Salt particles in the caves have a beneficial effect on the condition of the hair follicles and the appearance of the hair in general.

The benefits of salt caves in the fight against smoking are known. Especially if a heavy smoker can not part with addiction. Inhaling clean air allows such a person to compare it to tobacco smoke, and this becomes the first psychological moment on the path to a healthy lifestyle: the lungs are cleared, inflammation is reduced, and the craving for nicotine gradually fades away.

Salt caves are equipped with maximum comfort and an atmosphere that forms a psycho-emotional relief. Thus, a session of halotherapy acquires not only a healing, but also a relaxing effect.

Indications for halotherapy

There are many indications for halotherapy. The main goal of such sessions is the improvement of the respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous systems of a person.

  • Preventive measures to prevent colds: frequent acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, pneumonia, bronchitis of varying severity, etc.
  • Treatment of ENT diseases: chronic sinusitis and frontal sinusitis, enlarged tonsils and adenoids, their chronic inflammatory processes
  • Treatment of asthmatic manifestations: pre-asthma, "smoker's bronchitis" syndrome, recurrent tracheobronchitis, and, of course, bronchial asthma
  • Reduction of possible complications in the initial stages of colds, such as false croup or bronchospasm. Halotherapy in these cases can reduce the viscosity of sputum, improve its separation and reduce swelling of the mucous membranes, thereby relieving symptoms, relieving suffocation and increasing bronchial patency.
  • Allergic manifestations: allergies of various etiologies, including allergic dermatitis and rhinitis
  • Skin lesions, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema and pustular manifestations on the skin, acne and hypersecretion of the sebaceous glands
  • For recovery in the field of cosmetology - halotherapy sessions relieve the inflammatory process
  • In diseases of the cardiovascular system: ischemia, angina pectoris, hypo- and hypertension. It is effective to visit salt caves during the recovery period after a heart attack or stroke
  • In the event of neurotic and neurosis-like conditions: phobic manifestations, fears, insomnia, unreasonable anxious thoughts and fears. Influencing the human vegetative system, salt air contributes to its normalization in the psycho-emotional plan
  • Prevention of diseases associated with environmental pollution. Areas where hazardous industries are located or when a person does not have a stable work schedule, for example, if necessary, go to night shifts, salt caves will help to cope with psycho-emotional stress, clean air will relieve fatigue and have a positive effect on an overloaded nervous system.

Contraindications for halotherapy

There are few contraindications to halotherapy, but they must be taken into account, because visiting salt caves in the presence of chronic or infectious diseases, especially during an exacerbation or relapse, will only aggravate the situation. In addition, it is important to be aware of the possible individual intolerance to saline aerosol.

The main contraindications of halotherapy include:

  • active stage of tuberculosis
  • malignant neoplasms
  • infections before the end of the isolation period
  • diseases with complications in the form of severe suppuration
  • period of exacerbation of blood diseases
  • bleeding of any origin and localization
  • entire period: pregnancy
  • acute form of sexually transmitted diseases
  • chronic addictions: alcoholism and drug addiction
  • mental illness of varying severity.

Before starting a course of halotherapy, you should consult with your doctor to clarify the indications and contraindications for such a procedure.

Halotherapy at home

dynamic modern world requires a maximum of time from a person, so there is an option when halotherapy can be carried out at home, without leaving for specially equipped rooms or in the natural conditions of salt caves.

The organization of halotherapy sessions at home has several options, ranging from purchasing only a specialized lamp made from salt crystals, and ending with equipment for this purpose in a separate room. In the first case, of course, it will not be possible to achieve a diverse effect on organs and systems, but it is quite possible to strengthen immunity.

The cost of decorating a salt room is quite affordable, and the effect of it will be quickly reflected in the reduction of visits to the doctor of all family members. The indisputable advantage of halotherapy at home is the reduction, and even complete elimination, of medicines in illnesses.

Arrangement of a halochamber at home begins with the choice of premises. The area of ​​the room is calculated according to the scheme "3 sq. m per person or more”, and the air should be warm and dry.

A true halochamber can only be equipped by a specialist who knows the features of such a structure. He will develop an individual plan in accordance with the conditions and opportunities provided.

At home, useful sessions can be carried out at any convenient time. Regular inhalation of fresh salty air strengthens the body, protects it from the effects of harmful microbes and dust, and restores respiratory functions.

Halotherapy was used 2.5 thousand years ago in Greece. People used salt caves of natural origin, and today this method has become widespread due to the possibility of artificial reproduction of beneficial conditions that have no less positive effect on the human body.

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