Italian survey on the effectiveness of halotherapy administered <i>via</i> the Aerosal^® system

Abstract

Over the years, halotherapy (HT) has shown promise in the treatment of respiratory and dermatological diseases. However, its widespread acceptance remains limited due to the absence of official guidelines and awareness among doctors and patients. Among the patented systems of administration of HT, Aerosal® is the only one consisting of 3 certified elements, all classified as Medical Devices Class 2A: a dry saline dispenser called Aerosalmed®, a 30 g salt dose named AeroNaCL®, and a confined environment in marine multilayered construction with walls coated in salt called Aerosal®. We conducted an online survey of subjects undergoing Aerosal® HT across 80 Italian centers. Participants provided demographic data, reasons for choosing HT, and perceptions of its effectiveness. Following 10 treatment sessions, they rated improvements in various aspects, such as skin condition, sleep quality, relaxation, and respiratory benefits. Most participants learned about HT through word of mouth rather than medical advice, suggesting a discrepancy between patient satisfaction and medical endorsement. Over 92% reported resolution of their health issues post-treatment, with significant improvements in sleep quality and relaxation, particularly in adults. The therapy showed promise in various conditions, including respiratory and skin disorders, possibly attributed to stress reduction and intrinsic therapeutic effects. Despite skepticism, HT administered through the Aerosal® system has shown therapeutic potential. The psycho-physical benefits observed in patients advocate for greater consideration of this therapy by clinicians, emphasizing its safety, tolerability, and absence of notable side effects. In this context, standardized systems like Aerosal® are crucial for ensuring treatment safety and efficacy.