About Steam Shower Enclosures
A steam shower enclosure is a unit that takes a standard shower and merges it with a steam bath. Once reserved for spas and health clubs--because of the health benefits it afforded--steam shower enclosures are now being easily installed in the home. A steam shower generator is used to produce the water vapor; this allows you to take a steam bath and shower at the same time. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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There are two types of steam shower enclosures: the bathtub and the walk-in. The steam shower enclosure with a bathtub allows a whirlpool bath to also be added; it is generally much larger. The walk-in steam shower enclosure is ideal if space is limited, but with options--such as built-in benches--the walk-ins can be just as large and costly as the bathtub models.
Significance
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A steam shower can be used for steam therapy. This type of therapy increases the body's temperature, which in turn stimulates a fever and causes hyperthermia. Hyperthermia boosts the immune system and kills pathogens. Blood circulation also improves due to the steam shower's ability to help expand blood vessels.
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Benefits
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Benefits include increased joint flexibility, elimination of toxins and waste, improvement in skin tone, as well as relief from allergies, headaches, the common cold and upper respiratory conditions such as asthma. A major benefit is weight loss. Due to the heat, your body can burn as many as 600 calories during a steam bath. This is because body fat becomes soluble at 109 degrees F, which in turn, allows your body to sweat out the fat.
Features
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Steam shower enclosures also offer some added luxuries such as a choice between 10 to 24 body jets. In newer models, other options available are CD/Radio inputs, foot massagers, overhead lamps, quality flooring such as teak, telephones, benches installed in walk-in enclosures, rainfall showers and aromatherapy oils, which can be added to the steam emitter.
Prevention/Solution
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Prior to, and after using the steam shower, it is important to drink plenty of water to remain hydrated. Further, the steam shower should not be used for more than 20 minutes, or if you have open wounds. If you have just engaged in rigorous exercise, allow your body to reach its normal temperature before using the steam shower.
Considerations
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You may want to take into consideration the cost of the large amounts of water that will be used. On average, a steam shower will use between one to two gallons of water per minute (GPM).
Precautions
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Steam showers are not to be used by everyone. They should always be avoided if you have high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. Further, they are not recommended for pregnant women, small children or the elderly. In case of health conditions and concerns, it is recommended that you speak to your health care provider before using.
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