[Spa and climate therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Environmental Medicine
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Context:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) presents increasing global prevalence, incidence, mortality, and healthcare costs.
• COPD etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic predispositions and environmental factors like tobacco smoke, pollution, and infections.
• Current medical management follows GOLD guidelines, but complementary therapies are being explored.

Purpose:

• To review the epidemiological and clinical aspects of COPD.
• To outline the principles and benefits of spa therapy for COPD management.
• To discuss the specific roles of sulphurous, salsojodic, sulphate, and bicarbonate mineral waters in COPD treatment.

Summary:

• Spa therapy for COPD involves inhaling mineral waters, particularly sulphurous and salsojodic types.
• Sulphurous waters enhance bronchial mucosal circulation, immune response (IgA), and mucus clearance, improving cough and sputum.
• Salsojodic waters aid mucus fluidity, mucociliary clearance, and bronchial mucosal health, with clinical trials showing functional improvements (FEV1, CV).

Impact:

• Spa therapy offers a complementary approach to conventional COPD treatment, potentially reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
• Understanding the mechanisms of mineral waters can inform personalized spa treatment protocols for COPD patients.
• Further research into the synergistic effects of spa therapy and environmental factors on COPD morbidity is warranted.