Using heat therapy to lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel health in older adults
Passive heat therapy for lowering systolic blood pressure and improving vascular function in mid-life and older adults
This study is looking at how soaking in hot water can help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow for people aged 50 and older, making it easier for them to stay healthy and feel good.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10837870 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of passive heat therapy, such as hot water immersion, on lowering systolic blood pressure and enhancing vascular function in mid-life and older adults. The approach involves raising the body's core temperature to improve blood flow and reduce stiffness in blood vessels, which are common issues in individuals aged 50 and older. Previous pilot trials have shown promising results, indicating that this therapy is safe and may lead to significant improvements in blood pressure and vascular health over a series of sessions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are mid-life and older adults, particularly those aged 50 and above, who have elevated blood pressure or vascular dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 50 or those with severe cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-invasive method for older adults to manage high blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown success with similar heat therapy approaches in improving blood pressure and vascular function.
Where this research is happening
Boulder, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado — Boulder, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seals, Douglas R — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Seals, Douglas R
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.