Today s hot tubs are usually small pools constructed of tile, marble, concrete, or fiberglass shell. Water is heated and circulated through a pump and filter. There are many reasons people like having a hot tub. The warm swirling water relaxes the body, reduces stress, and improves sleep. Pulsating jets of water soothe sore muscles.
Hot tubs are also great centers of entertainment for family and friends.
Standing pools of water can be breeding grounds for disease-causing organisms. Hot tub owners must carefully balance chlorine and pH levels of the water to reduce the risk of water contamination. One condition sometimes seen in hot tub users is folliculitis, an infection usually caused by the bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. About one to two days after soaking in contaminated water, a rash or itchy bumps appear on the skin. The bumps may enlarge and become red or fill with pus.