Hot Tub Injuries on the Rise
Nov. 5, 2009 -- Relaxing in a backyard hot tub may be fun, but potential dangers lurk. A new study shows that as the popularity of hot tubs has increased, so has the number of injuries.
Researchers analyzed emergency room records from 1990 until 2007. During that period, the number of nonfatal hot tub, whirlpool, and spa-related injuries increased by 160%, from about 2,500 in 1990 to more than 6,600 in 2007.
Most injuries happened to people who were aged 17 and older, though some of the serious injuries, including near-drownings, were more likely to involve young children. Overall, the most common injury was a laceration. Body parts most affected were the lower extremities and the head. The most common ways people injured themselves were through slips and falls.
"Although some steps have been taken to make hot tubs safer, increased prevention efforts are needed," study author Lara McKenzie, principal investigator at the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital and a faculty member of The Ohio State University College of Medicine, said in a written statement.
In their conclusion, study authors called for more research into what is causing the injuries. They also encouraged people to follow safety precautions, including:
- Put slip-resistant surfacing in and around the hot tub.
- Limit time and temperature of hot tub exposure to 10 to 15 minutes at no more than 104° F.
- Comply with suction cover standards.
- Parents should keep hot tubs covered and locked when not in use, consider installing a fence or barrier around the area, and set rules prohibiting jumping and diving.
del.icio.us
Important Safety Information
Vimpat (lacosamide) is a medicine that is used with other medicines to treat partial onset seizures in patients 17 years of age and older with epilepsy. Vimpat is generally well-tolerated, but may not be for everyone. Ask your doctor if Vimpat is right for you. Antiepileptic drugs, including Vimpat, may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self harm that you have never had before or may be worse than before. Please see additional patient information in the Medication Guide at the end of the full prescribing information. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your condition or your treatment. Please see additional Patient Safety Information
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
-
9
-
10
-
11
-
12
Sleep expert helps new moms get more rest.
