What does hydrogen sulfide cure? Therapeutic hydrogen sulfide baths - who is this therapy indicated for? The downside of physiotherapy: the harm of hydrogen sulfide baths

What are hydrogen sulfide baths and what is their secret?

Hydrogen sulfide or sulfide baths (balneotherapy) are baths based on mineral waters that contain hydrogen sulfide.

Depending on the saturation of water with hydrogen sulfide, several types of baths are distinguished:

• with a low concentration of hydrogen sulfide in water – from 10 to 50 mg/l;
• baths with average saturation of water with hydrogen sulfide - more than 50 mg/l, but not more than 100 mg/l;
• bath with a high proportion of hydrogen sulfide from 100 to 250 mg/l;
• saturated baths with a hydrogen sulfide concentration of more than 250 mg/l.

Baths are common in medical practice average And high saturation.

The secret of such baths is their double action: thermal and mechanical. The first effect is achieved through the direct effect of hydrogen sulfide on the skin. The mechanical effect is achieved due to temperature fluctuations of water, which is accompanied by hydrostatic pressure.

Therapeutic effect

Treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths has a beneficial effect on the human body. Sulfide baths are an effective antioxidant.

Hydrogen sulfide helps to activate blood circulation, which helps saturate the cells of all organs with beneficial substances contained in hydrogen sulfide, and also helps reduce the risk oxygen starvation cells.

When taking hydrogen sulfide baths, the active substances of mineral waters come into direct contact with the skin, resulting in the opening of pores, which promotes better penetration useful substances into the human body.

Carbon dioxide-hydrogen sulfide baths

• They improve the functioning of the secretory glands, resulting in increased production of histamine, serotonin and acetylcholine, which have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the body, and improve the process of neural interconnection between organs.
• They have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, regenerating effects. Due to this, they are actively used for the treatment of dermatological and gynecological problems, as well as for diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Radon and hydrogen sulfide baths

• They are able to remove toxins and speed up metabolism, which helps cope with many pathological processes.
• They have a therapeutic effect on the liver, which is directly involved in metabolic processes, including sulfur.

As a rule, in nature, mineral springs, in addition to hydrogen sulfide, contain iodine, bromine and fluorine ions, as well as sulfates and bicarbonates. At the same time, mineral water with hydrogen sulfide is rich in microelements: tin, barium, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium, copper and others.

Indications

Before taking baths, it is necessary to study the indications and contraindications that hydrogen sulfide has. Let's start with the testimony.

Balneotherapy for the cardiovascular system

Taking hydrogen sulfide baths has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system and helps to cope with the unpleasant consequences of a heart attack. Radon and hydrogen sulfide baths are also effective for treatment and prevention

• hypertension;
• tachycardia;
• varicose veins;
• atherosclerosis;
• thrombophlebitis;
• heart failure;
• infectious inflammatory diseases cardiovascular system.

Hydrogen sulfide baths are an auxiliary therapeutic method and are used in combination with the main treatment.

Hydrogen sulfide baths for the musculoskeletal system

Treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths is indicated for patients with infectious and inflammatory pathologies of bone, cartilage and joint tissue. Sulfide baths are effective in recovery from infectious and traumatic injuries spinal cord. Also indications for balneotherapy are:

• arthritis;
• osteochondrosis;
• arthrosis;
• Bekhterev's disease.

Sulfide baths for the central nervous system

As a rehabilitation therapy after injuries and inflammatory diseases of various etiologies of the brain and spinal cord, treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths is prescribed. Indications for balneotherapy are:

• peripheral diseases nervous system;
• encephalopathy.

Treatment of dermatological problems

Due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, wound-healing and regenerating effect, treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths is widely used in dermatology. So, radon baths help cope with:

• acne;
• furunculosis;
• psoriasis;
• eczema;
• dermatitis of various etiologies.

Balneotherapy for genitourinary diseases

For women, treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths is prescribed for:

• inflammatory diseases of the genital organs;
• obstruction of the fallopian tubes;
• hormonal imbalances, including the menstrual cycle and menopause.

In men, radon and hydrogen sulfide baths are indicated for:

• epididymitis;
• orchitis;
• balanoposthitis;
• prostatitis;
• other diseases of the male genital organs of inflammatory etiology.

Due to their anti-inflammatory effect, carbon dioxide-hydrogen sulfide baths are used to treat diseases of the urinary organs:

• urethritis;
• cystitis;
• jades;
• inflammation of the ureters;
• Urolithiasis

Balneotherapy for diseases of the digestive system

Doctors often supplement the main treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths, the effect of which can cope with:

• cholecystitis;
• chronic hepatitis;
• peptic ulcer of various localization;
• gastritis;
• Crohn's disease.

In addition, radon and hydrogen sulfide baths are used as restorative therapy after suffering surgical interventions on the digestive organs.

Other

Hydrogen sulfide baths are used for endocrine disorders that manifest themselves in dysfunction thyroid gland. Often radon and hydrogen sulfide baths are included in the course of treatment for diabetes mellitus, since the substances included in the composition mineral water are able to normalize general clinical blood parameters, normalize the lipid and cholesterol composition of the blood.

Contraindications

The benefits and harms of hydrogen sulfide baths are difficult to differentiate. For example, hydrogen sulfide baths are indicated for chronic pathologies of the digestive system, but are contraindicated during their exacerbation. Therefore, before taking sulfide baths, you should consult your doctor, as the list below is not exhaustive.

Contraindications to balneotherapy are:

• pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• availability allergic reactions and individual intolerance to the components of hydrogen sulfide baths;
• heart defects;
• inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system, including bronchial asthma;
• tuberculosis and diseases of the lower respiratory organs;
• heart rhythm disturbance;
• weeping dermatitis;
• renal pathologies during exacerbation, as well as renal failure;
• liver failure;
• liver diseases of acute and chronic form;
• epilepsy;
• malignant tumor formations;
• recurrent forms of heart attack;
• fever;
• deep brain lesions;
• angina pectoris;
• internal bleeding and predisposition to it;
• pathologies of the circulatory system;
• exacerbation of chronic pathologies of various etiologies.

Admission rules

In order for hydrogen sulfide baths to bring only benefits to your body, you need to follow a few simple rules:

1. Take hydrogen sulfide baths strictly as prescribed by your doctor.
2. Take a bath 3 hours after eating. Also, do not take baths on an empty stomach.
3. If there are other procedures that are carried out on the same day as balneotherapy, it is necessary to leave intervals of at least two hours between them.
4. During hydrogen sulfide treatment, smoking and drinking, especially drinks containing alcohol, are contraindicated.
5. Doctors do not recommend playing sports before taking hydrogen sulfide baths. This will increase the stress on the body and may lead to a worsening of the condition. Therefore, rest for two or more hours before taking a bath.
6. After taking hydrogen sulfide baths, rest.
7. If you experience weakness, dizziness or other ailments, refuse the procedure and consult your doctor.
8. Take baths in courses to get the desired effect.

Balneotherapy regimens

Depending on the indications, as well as the general condition of the patient, the doctor prescribes one of three balneotherapy regimens.

Scheme No. 1

Treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths according to scheme No. 1 is the most gentle treatment regimen and is used, as a rule, for the period of adaptation to hydrogen sulfide. According to this scheme, the patient is prescribed baths with a hydrogen concentration of 25 to 100 mg/l and a water temperature of 36 0 C. Such baths must be taken starting from 6 minutes and gradually increasing to 15 minutes. If the patients are children or patients with heart pathologies, the duration of bathing is no more than 10 minutes.

In the autumn-spring period, baths with a temperature of 37 0 C are prescribed. In the absence of contraindications, the duration of balneotherapy is increased to half an hour.

When combining hydrogen sulfide baths with local procedures, the latter are carried out before the baths, not counting the enema. Physiotherapeutic procedures are not recommended on the day of taking sulfide baths.

Radon and hydrogen sulfide baths according to scheme No. 1 are used for:

• normalization and restoration of metabolic processes;
• improving blood circulation;
• strengthening the immune system.

Scheme No. 2

A bath with a moderate effect is taken for 6-15 minutes, with a sulfide fraction from 100 mg/l to 150 mg/l, while the temperature ranges from 34 0 C to 37 0 C. The course of treatment according to scheme No. 2 ranges from 8 to 15 procedures. Baths are taken at intervals of one or two days.

Treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths according to scheme No. 2 is necessary for:

• metabolic disorders;
• disorders and pathologies of the nervous system;
• weak immunity;
• dermatological problems;
• genitourinary diseases;
• diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Scheme No. 3

For intensive effects on the patient’s body, doctors recommend balneotherapy according to scheme No. 3, which is indicated for:

• poor metabolism, as a result of which other pathological processes were formed;
• some pathologies of the central nervous system;
• problems of the musculoskeletal system.

Sulfide baths according to scheme No. 3 create favorable conditions for a profound restructuring of body functions, tissue restoration and nutrition.

According to the third treatment regimen, the temperature of the water in the bath should be in the range of 34-36 0 C, while the duration of treatment is from 3 to 10 minutes. One course includes 8-10 procedures, with a one-day break between each procedure.

To take a hydrogen sulfide bath according to scheme No. 3, in the first 2 days baths are prescribed according to scheme No. 1, then for the next 2 days according to scheme No. 2. After which the remaining 4-6 procedures are carried out with a hydrogen sulfide concentration of more than 250 mg/l

Hydrogen sulfide baths at home

If it is not possible to attend hydrogen sulfide baths in specialized institutions, this procedure can be carried out at home. However, it is worth remembering that there is a high risk of poisoning from volatile compounds. Therefore, carry out procedures only in well-ventilated bathrooms that are equipped with powerful ventilation.

Also, you should know that at home you will not get the same therapeutic effect as in sanatoriums. This is due to the lack of control of the concentration of hydrogen sulfide in the bathroom. In special medical institutions the temperature and concentration level are controlled by special devices throughout the entire procedure.

Hydrogen sulfide baths at home are carried out using special compositions for sulfide baths, which can be purchased at pharmacies or specialized stores. You can also take baths with regular mineral water, which includes hydrogen sulfide, salts, micro and macro elements.

When preparing hydrogen sulfide baths at home, monitor the water temperature. A special temperature regime will help get rid of various diseases. To strengthen the body's defenses, tonify, and also to improve the condition of the skin, take a bath with a temperature of 30 0 C to 35 0 C. To eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of a cold, take a hydrogen sulfide bath with a temperature of about 40 0 ​​C.

Hydrogen sulfide baths help fight many diseases, which explains their popularity in medical complexes and SPA centers. However, there are numerous contraindications for taking hydrogen sulfide baths, so be sure to consult with a specialist before signing up for a course of procedures or traveling to a specialized resort.

Useful properties sulfur baths and indications for use

Treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths is indicated for the following ailments:

• Coronary heart disease;
• Gynecological and urological diseases associated with infection or disorders due to improper lifestyle;
• Diseases and disorders of the nervous system. It's about about stress, depression, and fatigue;
• Skin diseases. They happen various types, therefore, contact with the healing liquid is not allowed in every case. Consult your dermatologist if you wish to take a hydrogen sulfide bath;
• Age-related diseases of the joints and musculoskeletal system, post-traumatic period. We are talking about arthritis, osteochondrosis and recovery procedures after fractures and sprains. Treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths is indicated for some other complications.

However, it should be understood that the sulfur bath treatment method is not the main one for any type of disease, and may also not be recognized by your doctor as an effective therapy. However, if drug treatment does not bring the desired result, if you do not want to “poison” your body with an endless amount of potent medications, consult with other specialists whom you trust. Often, alternative treatment, including a course of hydrogen sulfide baths, helps in cases where pills are powerless.

Contraindications for the use of sulfur baths

General contraindications when you cannot take hydrogen sulfide baths are:

• Angina;
• Chronic diseases liver, digestive organs, thyroid gland, lungs;
• Serious mental disorders, drug addiction, alcoholism;
• Blood diseases that are in the acute stage and diseases that provoke frequent bleeding;
• Epilepsy;
• Serious open wounds;
• Infectious diseases V acute form;
• Some diseases of the female genital organs;
• Allergy to hydrogen sulfide;
• Pregnancy.

There are also age restrictions for the use of sulfur baths: children under 3 years of age and people over 75 cannot be treated with hydrogen sulfide baths: in these cases, the harm from hydrogen sulfide baths may exceed their benefits.

How to take hydrogen sulfide baths

A course of hydrogen sulfide baths should contain 12-14 procedures, repeated every 2-3 days. The duration of stay in the bathroom should not exceed 12 minutes, after which the patient wipes himself with a towel and rests under a warm blanket or sheet for 30-40 minutes. Courses are held every 4-6 months. To obtain a greater therapeutic effect, others may be included in the course.

The benefits of hydrogen sulfide baths for the body will be enormous, even if you use them for preventive purposes. But do not forget to consult with your doctor whether it is possible to take hydrogen sulfide baths in your particular case.

Most effective method balneotherapy are hydrogen sulfide baths. Indications for their use are very diverse. Hydrogen sulfide (or sulfide) baths are widely used in the complex therapy of patients who suffer from various ailments.

The effect of this treatment procedure on the patient’s body is ensured due to several factors. Firstly, hydrostatic pressure and water temperature have a beneficial effect on the patient. Secondly, hydrogen sulfide penetrates the skin and blood. This valuable irritating effect on the endings allows you to maximize the work of all organs and systems of the human body.

Taking hydrogen sulfide baths can enhance coronary circulation, reduce blood pressure, improve the peripheral resistance of the heart muscle and the condition of the nervous system. Under the influence of hydrogen sulfide baths, biologically active elements are formed that help expand small capillaries and improve metabolic processes in the body. At the same time, blood flow accelerates and foci of inflammatory processes decrease, which relieves pain and increases the motor functioning of the joints.

Hydrogen sulfide baths, the indications for use of which are various diseases of both the central and peripheral nervous systems, are also prescribed in the presence of inflammatory processes in the musculoskeletal system, for pathologies of the skin and in the treatment of ailments of a urological and gynecological nature. These procedures are recommended for hypertension and diabetes. Taking sulfide baths is effective for getting rid of diabetes, various diseases of the joints and spine.

For varicose veins and post-thrombophlebitic conditions, hydrogen sulfide baths are also recommended. Indications for their use also apply to radiation sickness. Often these treatment procedures serve to normalize protein, mineral and fat metabolism. Hydrogen sulfide baths, indications for which are pathologies endocrine system, help strengthen the function of the thyroid gland.

When prescribing treatment procedures, it is necessary to take into account that hydrogen sulfide baths have contraindications. They are not recommended for arrhythmia and coronary disease which is accompanied by attacks of angina pectoris. Baths containing hydrogen sulfide are not prescribed to patients suffering from active rheumatism and heart disease. The list of contraindications includes liver and kidney diseases, cancer and mental pathologies. Hydrogen sulfide baths are not prescribed if there is an ulcer. duodenum and stomach, for tuberculosis, hypotension, as well as for respiratory diseases. The use of these procedures is prohibited for severe hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, as well as for patients suffering from bronchial asthma.

Healing waters with a low content of free hydrogen sulfide are used for oral consumption. They are able to reduce gastric secretion and produce a choleretic and laxative effect. Ingestion of low-sulfide waters is indicated for liver damage. They are also effective in case of poisoning of the body with heavy metals. Medicinal waters with low hydrogen sulfide content act as antioxidants. They also produce a choleretic and diuretic effect on the patient’s body.

Therapeutic baths belong to the methods of physical therapy - balneological procedures. In addition to the fact that they all contain a large number of different beneficial substances, each type of bath has its own characteristics. For example, the composition may be dominated by iodine, pine oils, bromine, radon, and so on. The choice of one or another type of bath is determined in accordance with the indications. Treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths is no exception; it is carried out as prescribed by a doctor, as it can not only cure the disease, but also harm the body.

Hydrogen sulfide baths - what is it?

Hydrogen sulfide baths are a natural liquid in which the predominant component is hydrogen sulfide. Moreover, its content in one liter must be at least 10 mg. In addition to the main ingredient, the composition includes ions of calcium, fluorine, magnesium, and other chemical elements. Colloidal sulfur, hydrosulfides and bicarbonates are also present. The composition will vary depending on the source deposit.

A solution with hydrogen sulfide can be low-concentrated (10-50 mg/l) or have an average content active substance(50-100 mg/l). At higher concentrations, the substance is presented in the form of a salt - 100-250 mg/l or more.

Dilution of such a drug requires special attention, so treating diseases with hydrogen sulfide baths should only be done under the guidance of a specialist.

To enhance the therapeutic effect, other mineral springs are additionally used, combining or alternating them with each other. For example, carbon dioxide-hydrogen sulfide baths, radon and hydrogen sulfide baths, sodium chloride baths, and so on are used. In addition, such water is used not only as baths, but also for douching, washing body cavities (nose, mouth), inhalations, and enemas.

Useful properties and effects

What are the benefits of hydrogen sulfide baths when used correctly? Balneological procedures with hydrogen sulfide have a beneficial effect on many body systems. Among their effects are the following.

• They have a calming, sedative effect on the nervous system. Restore sleep, normalize its cyclicity and depth.
• Activate metabolic processes, resulting in increased cell regeneration, improved blood circulation, removal of metabolic products, improved respiration and tissue nutrition.
• Active biological components are useful for blood vessels, strengthen connective tissue joints. After the course of treatment, joint mobility improves significantly, inflammation disappears, and pain goes away.
• The benefits of hydrogen sulfide also affect the performance of the blood coagulation system. Her rheological properties improve, the risk of blood clots decreases, and viscosity decreases.

Indications for hydrogen sulfide baths

Baths with hydrogen sulfide can be prescribed to an adult or child as an independent method of therapy, for preventive purposes, or as part of a general treatment complex. They have wide range indications, and are used to treat many organs and systems:

• Cardiovascular system: atherosclerosis, heart defects, arterial hypertension, obliterating endarteritis, myocardial dystrophy and others.
• Musculoskeletal system: polyarthritis, arthrosis, spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteochondrosis.
• Neurology: injuries and diseases of the spinal cord and brain, encephalopathy, meningoencephalitis, neuritis and neuroses, neuralgia.
• Dermatological disorders and diseases: eczema, dermatosis and dermatitis of various origins, psoriasis, itchy skin, urticaria, seborrhea.
• Gynecology and urology: menstrual disorders, diseases of the uterus, tubes, ovaries, fibroids, prostatitis.
• Endocrine system: thyroid diseases, disorders of the gonads, obesity, mastopathy, diabetes and so on.

Periodic courses of hydrogen sulfide baths may be indicated for people whose professional activities involve a high risk of poisoning, vibration and other negative factors.

Preparation of a hydrogen sulfide bath

In those areas where there are hydrogen sulfide springs, preparation for the procedure is not difficult: the bath is simply filled with natural mineral water. Where this is not possible, self-prepared formulations are used for treatment. To do this, take the following ingredients:

• hydrochloric acid;
• sodium bicarbonate;
• sodium sulfide;
• sodium chloride.

Preparing the composition yourself is dangerous for life!

How is the procedure performed?

Immediately before the balneotherapy session, the specialist needs to prepare hydrogen sulfide water. To do this, place a filled hot bath in in a certain order(!) add the ingredients of the mixture. After dissolving them, the temperature of the liquid is brought to the required temperature (approximately 36˚C).

The time the patient spends in hydrogen sulfide water is determined in advance by the doctor in accordance with the indications and is, on average, 10 minutes. At the end of the procedure, you need to rest for one and a half hours.

The duration of the course is also set by the attending physician (11-15 sessions). He also determines the treatment regimen: every other day or every two days. Repeating balneotherapy with hydrogen sulfide is allowed 4-6 months after completing the course.

Harmful properties and side effects

Under the influence of a hydrogen sulfide bath, nerve receptors are irritated, blood vessels dilate, blood and lymph flow increases, and skin pores open. All this is visually accompanied by redness of the skin and is not side effect. If an error was made in preparing the solution or the patient was in the bath for a longer time than required, the body may experience negative reaction in the form:

• increased or decreased heart rate;
• dizziness;
• breathing disorders;
• severe weakness.

If any of the listed symptoms appear, the procedure is stopped. In the future, you need to tell your doctor about this so that he can reduce the concentration of the solution.

Hydrogen sulfide baths, in most cases, are well tolerated by both women and men. However, if the preparation rules are not followed and contraindications are ignored, they can cause harm. It is known that the combination of hydrogen sulfide and hot water may contribute to an increased risk of malignancy. Moreover, hydrogen sulfide water aggravates diseases internal organs and puts a lot of stress on the heart.

Who should not undergo the procedure?

Contraindications to hydrogen sulfide baths are the following:

• hyperthyroidism;
• acute stage of diseases of the liver, kidneys, urinary and biliary tract;
• epilepsy;
• heart failure;
• open wounds;
• degenerative joint diseases;
• tuberculosis;
• ischemic disease;
• arrhythmias;
• angina pectoris;
• oncology;
• asthma;
• atherosclerotic changes in cerebral vessels;
• individual intolerance;
• allergy to hydrogen sulfide and components of the composition.

Hydrogen sulfide baths are not prescribed for young children who have not reached the age of three, as well as people over 75. During pregnancy, the procedure must be agreed with a gynecologist-obstetrician.

Taking hydrogen sulfide baths at home

Hydrogen sulfide baths at home are possible thanks to the availability of hydrogen sulfide salt in pharmacies. If it is not available, you should never prepare the mixture yourself. Individual ingredients are highly reactive and volatile, so home preparation of the composition can lead to unpredictable consequences and threaten health and life.

You can use hydrogen sulfide baths at home only after a preliminary examination and consultation with a specialist (especially in old age). The doctor will determine the required concentration, duration of the procedure individually and the entire course of treatment.

In general, treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths at home is no different from that in a sanatorium. After dissolving the salt in water, it is brought to a certain temperature. Detailed recommendations for the use of hydrogen sulfide salt are indicated in the attached instructions. In addition, you need to know some rules:

• the procedure should take place between meals (2 hours before and 2 hours after);
• You cannot be treated with hydrogen sulfide during fasting;
• After the procedure, you should definitely rest for at least 30 minutes;
• During the course, you should not drink alcohol (this will create a strong load on the heart, liver and kidneys);
• Immediately after a bath, you just need to throw a towel over yourself without rubbing your skin.

The first few procedures may cause deterioration of the condition and aggravate existing chronic pathologies. This phenomenon is within the normal range, but you should definitely inform your doctor about it. It may be necessary to reduce the content of the active ingredient.

Balneotherapy with hydrogen sulfide is widely used in spa treatment. Natural sources of healing mineral water are located in many places in Russia. You can take hydrogen sulfide baths in Pyatigorsk, Sernovodsk, Matsesta and other cities. You can combine a tourist holiday and treatment by going to Austria, France, Italy, California.

Research has established that when taking hydrogen sulfide baths, the hydrogen sulfide contained in them (if it is not dissociated) penetrates through intact skin into the internal environment of the body.

Mucous membranes are also easily permeable to hydrogen sulfide. The penetration of hydrogen sulfide through the skin will be stronger, the higher its concentration in the bath. At high concentrations (about 250 mg/l and above), it not only penetrates the skin, but also begins to circulate in the blood. Naturally, in addition to its irritating effect on the huge receptor field of the skin, in these cases it can also cause irritation of interoreceptors (sensitive nerve endings in the walls of blood vessels).

Most of the hydrogen sulfide that penetrates the body is oxidized to sulfates, hyposulfite and other undesirable substances. organic compounds sulfur. Some of it may participate in the formation of organic compounds, in particular chondroitin sulfate B, which has the ability to keep blood cholesterol in a dissolved state, thereby preventing its deposition on the walls of blood vessels.

The bulk of hydrogen sulfide that penetrates the body (or rather, its oxidation products) is excreted through the kidneys; in much smaller quantities it is removed from the body through the lungs, including unchanged.

A clear manifestation of the effect of hydrogen sulfide on the skin and mucous membranes is their redness.

The underlying expansion of this reaction is the expansion of capillaries and arterioles of the skin and deeper tissues under the influence of hydrogen sulfide, which is accompanied by a pronounced reaction of the cellular elements of the skin, in particular the so-called mast cells, which secrete biologically very active substances (heparin, histamine).

The effect of hydrogen sulfide baths is associated with reflex reactions that occur in response to irritation of sensitive nerve endings (receptors) embedded in the skin (and blood vessels). Closely related to the reflex effect on the body are humoral reactions (that is, transmitted by blood and lymph), which are included in the body’s general reaction to hydrogen sulfide procedures. In other words, the body's response to a bath is neurohumoral in nature.

The reflex-humoral effect of hydrogen sulfide baths also manifests itself in relation to the cardiovascular system, respiratory organs, endocrine glands, and metabolism. Thus, a complex chain of reactions arises, involving all the main systems of the body.

The redness reaction, associated with the reflex expansion of the blood vessels of the skin, is accompanied by the movement of blood from the internal organs, which are a kind of blood depot, to the periphery. At the second stage of this reaction, dilation of blood vessels in the internal organs occurs.

Hydrogen sulfide baths increase the permeability of cell membranes, which favors the normal flow of nutrients to cells, intensify the activity of enzymes and hormones in the body, improve metabolism in the heart muscle, establishing a more economical expenditure of heart energy. They slow down blood clotting and thereby prevent thrombosis, increase the intensity recovery processes in damaged tissues, promote the resorption of foci of low-grade inflammation.

Facts have been established indicating the normalizing effect of hydrogen sulfide baths on the functional state of the central nervous system. They increase the tone of the cerebral cortex and balance the basic nervous processes (excitatory and inhibitory).

In patients who have taken a course of hydrogen sulfide baths, the disturbed balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic parts of the autonomic nervous system, which controls the activity of the heart and other internal organs, the vascular system, and metabolism, is restored.

Hydrogen sulfide baths seem to equalize the functional state of the vasomotor centers, regulating the basic nervous processes and normalizing vascular reactions. Shifts occurring under the influence of hydrogen sulfide baths blood pressure more significant in hypertension than in normal or low blood pressure. In addition, a hydrogen sulfide bath is characterized by a phase change in blood pressure in hypertensive patients. So, when a patient is found hypertension in a hydrogen sulfide bath, his blood pressure decreases, when leaving it it often rises, and then, 15-20 minutes after the bath, it drops below the initial state.

At normal blood pressure, hydrogen sulfide baths do not cause significant changes.

Under the influence of hydrogen sulfide baths, the pulse rate also undergoes certain changes. In the first minutes of taking a bath, there is a slight increase in the pulse rate, and by the end of the bath it slows down, especially in cases where it was rapid in the initial state.

It has been proven that under the influence of hydrogen sulfide baths, the systolic and cardiac output improves. The speed of blood flow increases, especially if it was slowed down before the bath.

Hydrogen sulfide enhances oxidation processes in tissues, increases the activity of enzymes, especially sulfur-containing ones, and thereby helps to increase the energy resources of the heart muscle. It has been established that hydrogen sulfide affects histamine and acetylcholine metabolism by changing the activity of the enzymes histaminase and cholinesterase, which are actively involved in metabolism.

Hydrogen sulfide waters tend to reduce blood sugar levels when there is a sugar load in people. healthy people and in patients with diabetes, as well as create energy reserves in the body.

Due to the diverse influence of hydrogen sulfide baths on various functional systems body, they are widely used for various diseases of the nervous, cardiovascular systems, musculoskeletal system, and metabolic disorders.

Without going into details of the indications or contraindications for the use of hydrogen sulfide baths, we will only point out that in the conditions of resort treatment, a whole complex of various environmental factors acts on the patient simultaneously with balneotherapy. It is the entire complex as a whole (and not just the baths) that determines the high effect of spa therapy for a number of diseases.

When prescribing hydrogen sulfide baths for the treatment of various diseases, the concentration of hydrogen sulfide, the temperature of the baths, their duration, combination with other types of therapy, the number of baths per course and, most importantly, the general condition of the patient’s body, the activity of his body are taken into account. pathological process.

Currently, the Sochi resort uses baths with a concentration of total hydrogen sulfide from 25 to 400 mg/l. The bath temperature in summer is most often 34-35°, in winter - 35-36° (it can be increased or decreased depending on the patient’s individual sensitivity to it). The duration of the baths is set from 6-8 to 15 minutes and can be changed depending on the general condition of the patient and the concentration of hydrogen sulfide used.

A course of hydrogen sulfide baths causes a significant and generally favorable restructuring of the functional state of the sick person’s body. However, in a number of cases such a restructuring is accompanied by a temporary imbalance in activity various systems body, which is regarded as a balneological reaction. It can be expressed in a deterioration in health, the appearance of weakness, lethargy, sleep disturbance, and a local increase in temperature. Usually the balneological reaction is temporary.

The balneological reaction, which is a manifestation of a “physiological measure” aimed at restoring the balance disturbed in the pathological focus, is not a pathological phenomenon. At the same time, a pronounced and especially “violent” reaction, threatening to escalate, is harmful and even dangerous, and should not be allowed.

The possibility of a pronounced balneological reaction and its transition to an exacerbation of the inflammatory process will be different even with the same intensity of balneological procedures. The question, therefore, is to select a stimulus that matches the patient's reactivity. It is necessary to distinguish between different degrees of balneological reaction. It can be “silent”, “subclinical” with clinical manifestations, moderate severity, bordering on exacerbation, and, finally, strong, which is to a certain extent a phenomenon of a pathological nature, threatening an exacerbation of the pathological process.

Recently, when doctors prescribe balneotherapy to patients, they strive to avoid a pronounced balneological reaction and achieve the desired therapeutic effect without significantly disturbing the physiological balance of the body. This trend should be considered correct, since an exacerbation in a pronounced form can interfere with the normal course of recovery processes.

Success can be expected from hydrogen sulfide baths only if the time the patient spends in the bath and the concentration of hydrogen sulfide in it increases gradually. IN recent years At the Sochi Research Institute of Balneology and Physiotherapy, a harmonious system for prescribing hydrogen sulfide baths according to various modes of exposure has been developed.

When prescribing a course of treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths, doctors usually take into account the individual characteristics of the patient, the functional state of his body, and primarily the nervous system, as well as general indications and contraindications.

The specific purpose of a particular hydrogen sulfide balneotherapy regimen is dictated by the health status of the patients.

In the low-impact mode (mode No. 1, after the end of the adaptation period), baths with a hydrogen sulfide concentration of 25-50 mg/l are prescribed. These baths have a relatively gentle, gentle effect on the body, without causing sharp reactions. They gradually normalize the body's altered reactivity, improve metabolism and blood supply to organs and tissues, and thereby help strengthen the body's defenses against disease. In some cases, the final baths in this mode are given with a hydrogen sulfide concentration of 100 mg/l. Less often, instead of general baths, four-chamber baths with a hydrogen sulfide concentration of 150 mg/l are prescribed.

The duration of a general bath is 6-15 minutes. When treating children, as well as adults with damage to the valves and heart muscles, the duration of the bath is reduced to 5-10 minutes.

Baths according to regimen No. 1 are prescribed every other day. During the cold period of the year (November-April), the temperature of the hydrogen sulfide baths (in the absence of hypotension in patients) can be increased to 37°, that is, 1° higher than usual. Patients are recommended to take a longer (up to 30 minutes) rest after taking a bath in a specially equipped relaxation room. A hydrogen sulfide bath can be combined with any local procedure (irrigation, inhalation). All local procedures, with the exception of microenemas, are taken by patients before a shared bath.

For appropriate indications, balneotherapy according to regimen No. 1 does not exclude the use of air, sunbathing and sea bathing. Climatic procedures are allowed to be taken 3-4 hours after taking a hydrogen sulfide bath. Morning hygienic gymnastics can be carried out 2 hours before taking the Matsesta bath, other procedures of therapeutic physical culture - 2 hours after it. Physiotherapeutic procedures can be prescribed only on days free from Matsesta baths.

According to regimen No. 2 (moderately intense exposure), baths (less often, half-baths) with a hydrogen sulfide concentration of 100-150 mg/l are prescribed. The water in the bath is heated to 34-37°, and the patient lies in it for 6-15 minutes (when treating children, and sometimes adults with rheumatic heart disease - from 4-5 to 10 minutes). The doctor prescribes the patient to take baths, usually every other day or two days in a row, followed by a day of rest, for a total of 8-12, less often 13-15, baths per course of treatment.

Baths of average concentration of hydrogen sulfide (100-150 mg/l), dispensed according to this regimen, have a diverse effect on the patient’s body and, acting sparingly and training on a number of his organs and systems, rebuild the reactivity of the body, contribute to the normalization of the functional state of the central nervous system, metabolic processes, improve adaptive mechanisms in the body and increase its functionality.

The procedure for combining a general bath with local sulfide procedures (irrigation, inhalation, two- and four-chamber baths) is the same as in mode No. 1. Patients take climatic procedures 3-4 hours after taking hydrogen sulfide baths. In some cases, adults can take sea bathing and air baths (not sunbathing) before taking a bath.

Morning hygienic exercises in mode No. 2 are carried out 1-2 hours before taking hydrogen sulfide baths, and therapeutic exercises and other types of physical therapy - 1.5-2 hours after the bath. Physiotherapeutic procedures (with the exception of erythematic doses of ultraviolet irradiation, paraffin therapy or mud procedures) are allowed 1-2 hours before taking hydrogen sulfide baths.

According to regimen No. 3 (intensive balneological effects), baths are prescribed with a hydrogen sulfide concentration of 250-350 mg/l. These baths, having a multifaceted effect on the body, cause a deeper restructuring of the most important functions of the body, its reactivity and metabolic processes, improve blood supply and nutrition of organs and tissues, and contribute to the mobilization of the body's compensatory mechanisms.

In the intensive exposure mode, doctors prescribe general baths (less often half-baths) to patients with a water temperature of 34-36° (less often 37°), the duration of the bath is from 3-5 to 10 minutes. The course of treatment includes 8-10 baths (they are taken every other day).

According to regimen No. 3, treatment is carried out according to the following scheme: 2-3 baths with a concentration of hydrogen sulfide of 100 mg/l, 1-2 baths with a concentration of 150 mg/l, 2-3 with a concentration of 250 mg/l and subsequent ones with a concentration of 350 mg/l l. Local procedures are recommended after a general bath with a high concentration of hydrogen sulfide. Climatotherapeutic procedures and physical therapy are assigned in the same way as in mode No. 2.

Naturally, these regimes are a scheme that the sanatorium doctor modifies depending on the patient’s condition and his body’s reactions to the procedures.

Hydrogen sulfide baths are indicated for patients with rheumatic heart disease 10-12 months after the disappearance of acute and subacute manifestations of the rheumatic process, as well as for patients with cardiosclerosis, provided there are no gross violations of the basic functions of the myocardium. Such baths have a good effect in the treatment of stage I hypertension and in initial phase Stage II with circulatory disorders not higher than stage I, obliterating endarteritis.

In many balneological resorts, hydrogen sulfide baths are used to treat various joint pathologies, in particular infectious nonspecific polyarthritis, dystrophic, padagric, metabolic, endocrine and age-related joint lesions, traumatic arthritis, joint contractures and some other lesions of the musculoskeletal system.

Indications for sulfide balneotherapy are also some diseases of the nervous system - neuralgia, neuritis, radiculitis and others during the period of subsidence of the pathological process. Mandatory conditions for treatment with hydrogen sulfide baths are normal body temperature, low numbers of leukocytes (up to 7000) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (up to 20 mm/h) in the patient’s blood test. An increase in body temperature, an increase in the number of leukocytes over 7000 and an ESR over 20 mm/h indicate an active inflammatory process in the body, which is a contraindication for hydrogen sulfide balneotherapy. This is why this type of treatment should be preceded by a consultation with a doctor.

A very large group of those treated with hydrogen sulfide baths are those suffering from skin diseases - psoriasis, eczema, neurodermatitis, prurigo, recurrent urticaria, lichen planus, scleroderma and some other forms of dermatoses, as well as gynecological diseases inflammatory in the chronic stage.