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Physiological changes after spa treatment - a focus on endocrinology
M Bicikova1, L Macova, L Kolatorova
1Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic. mbicikova@endo.cz.
Physiological Research
|November 29, 2018
Summary
Spa treatment for anxiety-depressive disorders improved patient well-being by increasing serotonin and neurosteroids while decreasing homocysteine. These objective markers suggest sustained mental health benefits post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroendocrinology
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Neuroactive steroids and neurosteroids are vital for psychological well-being and organismal balance.
- Anxiety-depressive disorders are associated with imbalances in neurochemical factors.
- Previous research highlights the role of neurosteroids in mental health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify objective biochemical parameters for evaluating spa treatment efficacy in patients with anxiety-depressive disorders.
- To investigate the impact of spa therapy on neurosteroid levels, serotonin, and homocysteine.
- To correlate biochemical changes with improvements in mental health status.
Main Methods:
- Quantification of 94 steroids, homocysteine, and serotonin in blood samples from 70 female patients with anxiety-depressive disorders.
- Patients underwent a one-month spa treatment regimen alongside stable SSRI medication.
- Blood samples were collected pre- and post-treatment for comparative analysis.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant 23% increase in serotonin and a 17.1% decrease in homocysteine were observed.
- Significant increases in 21 steroids indicated adrenal cortex activation.
- Patient-reported mental health improvements correlated with biochemical changes.
Conclusions:
- Spa treatment positively modulates neurosteroid levels, serotonin, and homocysteine in patients with anxiety-depressive disorders.
- Objective biochemical markers demonstrate the therapeutic effects of spa interventions.
- Observed improvements suggest potential for long-lasting mental health benefits.
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