The effect of thermotherapy on functions of the circulatory system. Review literature

Abstract

According to the National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene, cardiovascular diseases account for 34.8% of deaths in Poland. In 2020 and 2021, contrary to the previous downward trend, cardiovascular disease mortality increased by 8.7% and 12.6%, respectively [1]. In addition to pharmacological intervention, physical activity, adherence to dietary recommendations, weight reduction, mental health care, and psychosocial and smoking interventions play a key role in preventing the development of cardiovascular disease [2]. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on the development of cardiovascular risk. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of thermotherapy on cardiovascular fitness indices and to analyze the efficacy and safety of this form of treatment in people with cardiovascular disease. For this purpose, the literature from 2013-2023 available in the Pubmed database was searched. The results of the papers suggest beneficial effects of various forms of thermotherapy on cardiovascular function.