Elderly deaths associated with balneotherapy in Denizli, Turkey province: three autopsy cases.

BACKGROUND

Turkey is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of balneotherapy resources. Thermomineral water baths are preferred by the elderly because of their positive beneficial effects over regulation of musculoskeletal system functions. However, existing cardiovascular and respiratory system diseases may constitute a risk and trigger ischemic changes in the heart.

METHODS

In this study, 2 cases are presented who suffered sudden cardiac death while having a thermal bath and 1 drowning case that was precipitated by chronic myocardial infarction. While 1 case was 63 years old, 2 cases were above 65 years of age. Two (2) cases had atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, whereas 1 case had heart failure.

RESULTS

The success of spa treatment, which is based on stimulation/harmonization therapy, restores bodily harmony and depends on the health of organs and functions playing a role in this process.

CONCLUSIONS

In the elderly, some conditions, particularly limited pulmonary and cardiovascular functionality, should be taken into consideration while applying those treatments.