The effect of hydrogen sulfide water on the human body. Hydrogen sulfide: what is dangerous for health? Symptoms of poisoning. Hydrogen sulfide: properties and scope
Hydrogen sulfide H2S- the most active of the sulfur-containing compounds. Under normal conditions, a colorless gas with an unpleasant smell of rotten eggs. Very poisonous: acute human poisoning occurs already at concentrations of 0.2-0.3 mg / l, concentrations above 1 mg / l are fatal. Hydrogen sulfide is highly soluble in water. The range of explosive concentrations of its mixture with air is quite wide and ranges from 4 to 45% vol. In contact with metals (especially if the gas contains moisture), it is highly corrosive. The most undesirable component in refinery gases.
The danger of hydrogen sulfide to humans.
Hydrogen sulfide is a very toxic gas that directly affects the nervous system. On a scale of danger, it is classified as class 3. Be sure to consider this fact whenever you smell its distinct smell. But what is especially dangerous is the property of hydrogen sulfide to dull the olfactory nerve, because of which a person simply ceases to distinguish the poisonous vapors surrounding him, and intoxication can occur suddenly.
The lethal concentration of this gas in the air is very small - only 0.1%. This amount of hydrogen sulfide can lead a person to lethal outcome in 10 minutes. One has only to slightly increase concentration - and death occurs instantly, after the very first breath. For example: in sewer system the concentration of hydrogen sulfide sometimes reaches 16%.
The most noticeable signs of severe hydrogen sulfide poisoning are pulmonary edema, convulsions, nerve paralysis, and subsequent coma. If hydrogen sulfide is contained in the atmosphere in smaller quantities (from 0.02%), the symptoms are not so fatal, but very unpleasant: dizziness and headache, nausea and quick addiction to the smell of "rotten eggs".
People who work or live in close proximity to hydrogen sulfide emitting plants experience what is known as chronic H2S poisoning. At the same time, they begin to feel worse, experience headaches, rapidly lose weight, cases of fainting become more frequent, and a taste of metal appears in the mouth. Hydrogen sulfide also has a negative effect on vision, affecting the mucous membrane of the eye and causing conjunctivitis, photophobia.
Hydrogen sulfide poisoning can be cured if the necessary measures are taken quickly: take the victim to fresh air, enrich his lungs with oxygen, introduce cardiac and respiratory analeptics, iron preparations, glucose, and vitamins.
MPC (Maximum Permissible Concentration)
MPC of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the air in the working area - 10 mg/m3 (GN 2.2.5.1313-03 Maximum Permissible Concentrations (MPC) harmful substances in the air of the working area), in a mixture with hydrocarbons - 3 mg / m3.
MPC of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the air of populated areas - 0.008 mg/m3 (GN 2.1.6.1338-03 Maximum Permissible Concentrations (MPC) of pollutants in atmospheric air populated areas).
A perceptible odor of hydrogen sulfide is noted at a hydrogen sulfide concentration of 1.4–2.3 mg/m3, a significant odor at 4 mg/m3, a heavy odor at 7–11 mg/m3
Toxicology.
Very toxic. Inhalation of air with a low content of hydrogen sulfide causes dizziness, headache, nausea, and with a significant concentration leads to coma, convulsions, pulmonary edema and even death. At high concentrations, a single inhalation can cause instant death. When inhaling air with low concentrations, a person quickly adapts to the unpleasant smell of "rotten eggs", and it ceases to be felt. There is a sweetish metallic taste in the mouth.
When inhaling air with a high concentration, due to paralysis of the olfactory nerve, the smell of hydrogen sulfide almost immediately ceases to be felt.
How is formed.
In nature, it is quite rare in the composition of associated petroleum gases, natural gas, volcanic gases, in dissolved form in natural waters (for example, in the Black Sea, water layers located deeper than 150–200 m contain dissolved hydrogen sulfide). It is formed during the decay of proteins, only those that contain the sulfur-containing amino acids methionine and / or cysteine. A small amount of hydrogen sulfide is found in the intestinal gases of humans and animals. Also found in crude oil.
It is a colorless gas with a rather specific aroma, reminiscent of the smell of rotten eggs. The chemical formula of the substance is H2S. The gas has other names: hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen sulfide.
H2S is highly flammable and when combined with oxygen forms dangerous explosive mixtures. The gas is very poorly soluble in water, so ethanol is used to split it.
When interacting with strong oxidizing agents, hydrogen sulfide can be converted into sulfuric acid or sulfur dioxide.
Hydrogen sulfide: properties and scope
The properties of H2S allow it to be used in a wide variety of industries.
In the process of use, an impressive part of hydrogen sulfide is released into the atmosphere. This contributes to rapid contamination environment and air poisoning.
Gas can also form naturally. For example, during the decay of natural substances, which include sulfur, or in the process of decomposition of the proteins of dead plants and living organisms.
Hydrogen sulfide is part of most mineral springs, so quite often in resort areas and sanatoriums, you can feel the characteristic unpleasant smell of gas. Among other things, natural hydrogen sulfide can be found in volcanoes, wells, or simply deep pits.
In cities, hydrogen sulfide is most often found in sewers and landfills, because. rotting food waste actively releases this gas. It is also a product of aeration stations.
Why hydrogen sulfide is dangerous for the human body
H2S is an extremely toxic gas that adversely affects the human nervous system. Hydrogen sulfide belongs to the third class on the scale of danger to the body. Therefore, you should take this fact into account every time you smell a distinct “rotten egg” smell. The greatest danger lies in the fact that the gas dulls the sense of smell and because of this, a person ceases to distinguish between toxic fumes. That is why poisoning with toxins can come unexpectedly.
The lethal dose of hydrogen sulfide in the air is only 0.1%, but even such a small amount of gas can lead to death in less than 10 minutes. If its level is higher, then death can occur from one breath. For comparison: in the sewer, the concentration of H2S is 16%.
The main signs of toxic gas poisoning are:
- pulmonary edema,
- severe convulsions,
- nerve paralysis,
- coma.
If the gas content in the atmosphere is from 0.02%, then this will not lead to sad consequences, but, nevertheless, the symptoms will be pronounced: severe headaches, nausea, frequent dizziness.
People who live or work near plants that release hydrogen sulfide into the air suffer from chronic poisoning. With such a long stay in proximity with H2S, symptoms such as fainting, rapid weight loss, metallic taste in the mouth, blurred vision, photophobia appear.
In order to cure gas poisoning, all necessary measures must be taken urgently. It is best to transport the victim to nature as soon as possible, where the air is maximally enriched with oxygen. From medical preparations, analgesics, glucose, vitamins and iron-containing preparations will help.
We recommend not to bring the situation to such a critical state. If you calculate the content of H2S in a timely manner, you can avoid dangerous poisoning. To do this, it is recommended to conduct an environmental survey of the apartment as soon as possible. Ecobalance provides services for determining the content of hydrogen sulfide in apartments, offices and other premises. Provide yourself and your family with safe air!
The smell of rotten eggs from childhood reminds everyone of what hydrogen sulfide is. A colorless gas with the chemical formula H2S is highly flammable and burns with a blue flame during fires.
A poisonous toxin rarely causes acute poisoning, but without treatment it worsens human health even in small doses. People come under its influence in industrial conditions, where crystalline sulfur can burn. Obtaining a substance in the laboratory is carried out using a gas generator.
Diffusion of matter
The connection and production of sulfur and hydrogen is associated with the decay of organic matter, rocks with sulfide compounds, because it is common in the mining, coke, gas and oil industries. Hydrogen sulfide water is found in industrial waste and sewage waters. The maximum permissible concentration (MPC) in the composition of the air is 10 mg/m3, but in the presence of hydrocarbons it is up to 3 mg/m3. There is an accumulation of hydrogen sulfide in volcanic rock, in places where sulfuric mineral waters on the ground or storage of organic waste in deep pits.
Workers of sewage treatment plants, workers of sewers, pumping stations, tunnels, wells, miners and employees of chemical laboratories are exposed to intoxication.
The use of sulfides is widespread in metallurgy in the processing of non-ferrous metal ores, in light industry as phosphors and electronics. Substance exhibits Chemical properties reducing agent, can be used to produce sulfur and sulfuric acid.
Toxicity and detection
The toxin has a third hazard class, inferior to cyanide in terms of toxicity by about 5-10 times. His physical properties determine the severity of toxicity. Hydrogen sulfide is heavier than air and condenses into a colorless liquid that quickly dissolves in water.
Smelling gas is not detected at a concentration below 1 ppm, the minimum threshold of touch is 0.18 mg/m3. It smacks of rotten eggs at a dose of about 40 mg/m3, at MPC from 40 to 150 mg/m3 it has a sweet smell. A dose above 150 mg/m3 causes a rapid temporary paralysis of the olfactory nerves, which makes it impossible to recognize it.
Medicinal waters with sulfur
Hydrogen sulfide in water is not always dangerous. In a well with drinking water the allowable concentration is below 0.03 mg/l, and when settling, the water will become cloudy due to the displacement of sulfur by oxygen. The benefits of a hydrogen sulfide solution are associated with the healing qualities of sulfide acids. From here, mineral waters appeared, which are formed naturally when water and inorganic sulfur rocks come into contact.
Hydrogen sulfide water with a concentration of 10-40 mg / l reduces the production of gastric juice, eliminates constipation and promotes the excretion of bile. It is recommended to drink it for liver damage and heavy metal poisoning, but take it only on the advice of a doctor.
The poisonous effect of hydrogen sulfide on humans
There are two ways of hydrogen sulfide poisoning:
- inhalation;
- contact with skin or mucous membranes.
At the cellular level, the substance binds to iron in molecules and inhibits cytochrome oxidases in mitochondria, blocking oxygen delivery.
Oxygen starvation - this is precisely the dangerous gas that forms sulfides when it enters the bloodstream.
Signs of poisoning appear when the process of accumulation of sulfides exceeds the body's ability to remove them. The substance is easily soluble in fats, therefore it freely penetrates into any cells, especially the central nervous system and lungs.
The spectrum of manifestations depends on the concentration and duration of exposure to hydrogen sulfide on the human body.
Acute poisoning associated with high doses of the toxin has several forms:
- Mild: manifested by irritation of the mucous membranes and respiratory tract. A person feels pain in the eyes, perspiration and scratching in the throat, becomes sensitive to color. Cough, runny nose, bronchospasm may intensify. Outwardly, it is manifested by redness of the eyes, spontaneous blinking and closing (blepharospasm).
- Medium: manifested when the substance penetrates through the lungs into the blood. A person suffers from headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea. Coordination of movements may be disturbed, a tendency to excitement and fainting is possible. Outwardly manifested by cyanosis of the lips. The doctor detects an increase in pressure, an acceleration of the pulse. Urinalysis reveals protein and cylindrical cells. Sometimes the temperature rises, symptoms of bronchitis and pneumonia appear.
- Severe: severe vomiting, blue skin, heart failure and suffocation. A deep coma usually ends in death. If a person then falls into a deep sleep, then wakes up, this indicates a favorable outcome. Intoxication is manifested by apathy, asthenia, stupor, gradually developing damage to the central nervous system. Perhaps the development of pulmonary edema.
Under the influence of doses above 1000 mg / m3, a lightning-fast or “apoplexy” form is observed, which is manifested by convulsions and fainting. Death occurs within 20 minutes due to paralysis of the respiratory center (brain stem) or against the background of heart paralysis.
Subacute intoxication acts more slowly, headaches, weakness or fatigue gradually increase. A person experiences sweating, the mucous membranes of the mouth turn red, and pain appears when swallowing. Eyes dry up, conjunctivitis develops. The separation of saliva increases, nausea, the stomach hurts paroxysmal, diarrhea occurs with a characteristic black-green stool.
chronic poisoning
Low levels of hydrogen sulfide exposure are not uncommon. Some countries have developed standards for industrial air emissions. Impacts in residential buildings are not considered at the state level, although nearby factories and agricultural facilities, oil and gas developments, treatment facilities pollute drinking water, especially in rural areas where treatment is not carried out.
If a person often suffers from inflammation of the eyes, rhinitis, bronchitis and laryngitis, diarrhea and nausea, complains of a breakdown, weakness with sweating, headaches, sleep disturbance against the background of low blood pressure and a slow heartbeat, he may experience constant hydrogen sulfide poisoning. Contact with solutions is manifested by rashes. A blood test will detect hypochromic anemia, changes in the size and deformation of red blood cells, and an increase in the number of monocytes. A person may not distinguish the smell of hydrogen sulfide, which indicates addiction.
Signs of hydrogen sulfide poisoning depend on its accumulation in the atmosphere. With low-intensity exposure, irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes is observed, but in general the body does not suffer. Complications arise after inhalation of gas at a concentration above 1000 mg / m3 in atmospheric air:
- acute respiratory distress syndrome;
- acute myocardial infarction;
- neuropsychiatric complications.
Manifestations of long-term neurological complications have not been studied, since in most cases exposure to hydrogen sulfide leads to death. After acute or subacute poisoning, there is a tendency to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, bronchi and lungs, cardiac pathologies and heart attacks, and organic lesions of the central nervous system. Sometimes, due to the effect on the body of hydrogen sulfide, a person experiences only headaches.
First aid measures for poisoning
The chemical properties of hydrogen sulfide make it easy to find an antidote for poisoning - inhalation of oxygen mixed with chlorine.
First aid is to immediately transfer the victim to fresh air or to a well-ventilated area. Respirators are used to avoid prolonged inhalation of the substance. The concentration of hydrogen sulfide in the air is measured to assess the severity of poisoning and take measures for treatment. Sometimes first aid is supplemented by intubation and oxygen therapy at the site of poisoning.
Treatment and prevention
Treatment is carried out in the intensive care unit, where ventilation of the lungs is prescribed with the creation of positive airway pressure in case of severe damage.
Acidosis is corrected based on the amount of lactate in the blood. The symptoms of hydrogen sulfide poisoning are similar to those of cyanide, so the induced methemoglobinemia will prevent hypoxia. The victim is injected with 10 ml of a 3% solution of sodium nitrate in 2-4 minutes, and the desired level of methemoglobin is reached in 30 minutes. Methylene blue antiseptic is also administered intravenously. With pallor of the skin and hypotension, treatment is supplemented by subcutaneous injections of norepinephrine, cordiamine and caffeine. Anticonvulsant therapy includes nitrous oxide.
In the absence of a response to intravenous nitrates or with persistent disorders in the work of the central nervous system, hyperbaric oxygenation is used.
With local irritation of the eyes, it is necessary to use lotions with a 3% boric acid on the eyes, applying vaseline oil to the eyelids, drops of novocaine with adrenaline in the conjunctival sac.
Prevention of poisoning is being developed for hazardous industries where:
- control the composition of the air;
- conduct periodic medical examinations;
- develop an emergency action plan.
Update: October 2018
Hydrogen sulfide bath is a balneological procedure based on the use of mineral water saturated with hydrogen sulfide. It is one of the most frequent and affordable procedures during spa treatment, rehabilitation and therapy of a number of diseases. The specificity of treatment is determined not only by the composition of the water, but also by its temperature, exposure time, and a number of others.
Hydrogen sulfide baths have strict indications and limitations, so they cannot be prescribed to everyone: all contraindications are absolute.
A bit of history
The benefits of water from hydrogen sulfide sources were first noted under Peter I. Already at the beginning of the 18th century, factories were built near Samara, whose workers bathed in Sulfur Lake, and the water from it treated various diseases well. skin diseases. This lake was located not far from the Sergievsk fortress, therefore the waters began to be called Sergievsky.
A little later, a specific effect was noted that develops in a person against the background of the use of these baths, which was called the Matsesta reaction. The name is associated with the most popular Russian resort Matsesta, located near Sochi.
Baths with water from natural hydrogen sulfide sources began to be actively used in sanatoriums that were built in places of hydrogen sulfide deposits (natural waters containing from 10 mg / l of total hydrogen sulfide are classified as hydrogen sulfide). These waters are used for baths, inhalations, irrigation, etc. In addition, many beauty salons offer this method, and using concentrates, you can go through the procedure at home.
Types of hydrogen sulfide baths
Depending on the level of hydrogen sulfide content, baths are classified into:
- weak, with the amount of hydrogen sulfide from 10-50 mg/l;
- medium, with the level of the active substance 50-100 mg / l;
- strong, the concentration of hydrogen sulfide in which is 100-250 mg / l;
- very strong, with a concentration of hydrogen sulfide from 250 mg / l.
Healing mechanisms and beneficial effects
The benefits of hydrogen sulfide baths are realized through the action of active substances. Hydrogen sulfide ions enter the body through mucous membranes, skin pores, respiratory system. When released into the bloodstream, free ions are oxidized and, having a certain effect, are excreted naturally through the kidneys and partially through the lungs.
The higher the concentration of hydrogen sulfide in water, the more it penetrates the body through the skin. At high concentrations of 250 mg / l and above, hydrogen sulfide begins to circulate in the blood. In addition to the irritating effect on the skin receptors, hydrogen sulfide, which is located in the blood vessels, has the same effect on the interoreceptors.
Most of the hydrogen sulfide is oxidized to sulfates, hyposulfite and other inorganic sulfur compounds. A small part of hydrogen sulfide takes part in the synthesis of organic compounds.
Hydrogen sulfide is a strong reducing agent: a natural antioxidant capable of being oxidized. Oxidation produces sulfur dioxide. Its increased concentration is dangerous for humans, but natural water contains a substance in small concentrations, so baths have a therapeutic effect.
Also, water from natural sources contains ions of fluorine, iodine, bromine, trace elements such as iron, barium, potassium, magnesium, gold, sodium, copper, as well as hydrocarbonates.
What happens while taking a bath?
Redness of the skin occurs 2-3 minutes after immersion in the bath. Penetrating through the skin, hydrogen sulfide affects the nerve endings localized in the walls of blood vessels. A pronounced reaction of cellular elements develops, namely mast cells that secrete active substances such as heparin, acetylcholine and histamine. Under the influence of these substances, the capillaries expand and in such an expanded state are able to place inside 1/3 of all freely circulating blood in the body. Those. blood from the internal organs, as it were, is collected under the skin, saturated with active substances and continues to circulate throughout the body. The result of vasodilation are objective sensations: a surge of heat to the skin, a slight burning sensation. The second stage of this reaction is the expansion of blood vessels located in the internal organs.
Blood microcirculation improves not only in the skin, but also in the tissues located under it, in the internal organs, cartilage, articular bags. Thus, the action of baths is associated with reflex reactions that develop in response to irritation of sensitive nerve endings located in the skin and blood vessels. And the humoral reactions transmitted by lymph and blood are also associated with the reflex action, which are included in the overall response of the body to the procedures. It turns out that the response is complex - neurohumoral and manifests itself in relation to the respiratory organs, of cardio-vascular system, endocrine glands, metabolism. A complex chain of reactions is implemented, involving all the main systems of the body.
It should be understood that this is a course treatment, and the maximum effect can be expected after passing all the procedures prescribed by the doctor.
Hydrogen sulfide baths:
- activate the activity of enzymes and hormones in the body;
- accelerate blood circulation, thereby improving the blood supply to organs. While taking baths, the minute and systolic volume of the heart improves, the speed of blood flow increases, and this is especially noticeable in patients with slow blood circulation;
- slow down blood clotting and prevent the formation of blood clots in the vessels;
- increase the permeability of cell membranes, improving the quality of tissue nutrition,
- normalize blood sugar both in patients with diabetes and in healthy people with a sugar load;
- activate metabolic processes. Hydrogen sulfide accelerates the processes of oxidation and increases the activity of sulfur-containing enzymes, helping to increase the energy resources of the myocardium. It has been proven that hydrogen sulfide affects acetylcholine and histamine metabolism by changing the activity of the corresponding enzymes (cholinesterase and histaminase) involved in metabolism;
- improve metabolism in the heart muscle, due to which the energy of heart contractions is spent more economically;
- increase oxygen consumption by organs and tissues;
- increase the speed of recovery processes in damaged tissues, which contributes to the resolution of sluggish inflammatory foci;
- improve lung ventilation;
- improve energy and metabolic processes in the joints and skeletal muscles, which lead to a decrease in pain, inflammation; the processes of restoration of cartilaginous tissues are accelerated;
- normalize blood pressure. The procedures align the work of the vasomotor centers by regulating the main nervous processes and normalizing vascular reactions. More significant shifts in blood pressure observed in hypertension: there is a phase change in vascular tone in patients with this pathology. While in the bath, the pressure in such patients decreases, when leaving, it rises, and after 15-20 minutes it drops below the initial state and becomes normal or close to it;
- normalize the pulse and rhythm of heart contractions. In the first minutes of the procedure, the pulse rate increases, and by the end of the procedure, the pulse slows down;
- calm and relax the central nervous system, cause a slight drowsiness due to the prevalence of inhibition processes over excitation;
- restore the disturbed balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system, which regulate the activity of internal organs and metabolism;
- improve the condition of the skin, which heals and smoothes. Its elasticity increases, allergic, inflammatory phenomena decrease or disappear;
- stop premature aging of the body.
Indications
There is a wide range of indications for the appointment of hydrogen sulfide baths. Be sure to take into account: the concentration of hydrogen sulfide (most often, on the rise), water temperature, duration of the procedure, the possibility of combining with other types of treatment, the number of baths per course and general state health, especially the activity of the pathological process, which is the main indication for treatment.
Main indications:
- skin diseases: dermatitis, dermatosis, psoriasis, eczema, neurodermatitis, scleroderma, psoriasis, ichthyosis, urticaria;
- gynecological diseases: chronic inflammatory processes, obstruction fallopian tubes, insufficiency of ovarian function, menstrual irregularities not associated with increased synthesis of female sex hormones;
- urological diseases: chronic prostatitis;
- cardiovascular pathologies: uncomplicated hypertension, circulatory disorders, heart defects (aortic and mitral valve) with circulatory failure not more than 1 tbsp. and in the absence of severe stenosis, myocardiostrophy, uncomplicated obliterating endarteritis, the consequences of thrombophlebitis of deep and superficial veins after 3-6 months. after an acute period;
- bone and joint diseases: arthritis, arthrosis, infectious polyarthritis in remission (6-8 months after exacerbation), non-infectious polyarthritis, Bechterew's disease, brucellosis polyarthritis (3 months after acute events), osteochondrosis, slow bone fusion after a fracture;
- endocrine pathologies: diabetes;
- neurological diseases: neuralgia, sciatica, post-traumatic conditions, reflex traumatic syndrome, vegetovascular dystonia, consequences of poliomyelitis, meningomyelitis, paralysis and paresis of the spinal cord;
- conditions after influenza, tonsillitis;
- Pediatrics: cerebral palsy, condition after birth injuries, perinatal encephalopathy, cardiovascular diseases described above.
How are the procedures carried out
The procedure is carried out only in a specially equipped room with good ventilation and exhaust - this is very important point to avoid poisoning by volatile hydrogen sulfide. The floor and walls are covered with special tiles, and metal parts (pipes, radiators) are painted with oil varnish. The bathroom is made of faience or concrete and covered with tiles.
How to take:
- The air temperature is 25 C. 200 liters of water T 35-37 C are taken into the bath and the concentrate is added, bringing it to the required concentration (or water from a natural source with a predetermined concentration). The patient is immersed in the bath and takes it for 6-15 minutes. After the bath, rest for 30-40 minutes in a horizontal position.
- The course is 10-14 baths with a frequency of 1 or 2 days. You can repeat the same course in 4-6 months.
- Belt half-baths, foot and multi-chamber baths are also used for separate parts body, irrigation and inhalation. Local baths can be carried out up to 20 minutes at a T of water of 38 degrees, daily or every other day.
After the procedure, a slight specific smell emanates from the body, which persists for a certain period of time.
Treatment regimens
Clear treatment regimens have been developed that have already known, expected effects on the patient.
- Weak impact (1 mode). Baths with a concentration of hydrogen sulfide 25-50 mg / l, taking 6-15 minutes, every other day. A combination with a local procedure using mineral water (irrigation, inhalation) is acceptable. They have a soft and gentle effect and do not cause sharp responses. Normalize the disturbed reactivity of the body gradually, improve metabolism and blood supply and lead to the strengthening of the defenses.
- Moderately intense exposure (mode 2). The concentration of hydrogen sulfide is 100-150 mg/l, the exposure is 6-15 minutes, the frequency is 1-2 days. They have a versatile effect, which can be called sparingly training. Increase the functional and adaptive capabilities of the body.
- Intense impact (3rd mode). The concentration of hydrogen sulfide - 250-350 mg/l, duration 3-10 minutes, after 1 day. A multifaceted action that causes a deep restructuring of functions, reactivity and metabolism in the body, improves blood circulation and compensatory capabilities of the body.
The indicated modes are an approximate scheme that is modified for each patient. In any regimen, treatment begins with low concentrations of hydrogen sulfide.
Hydrogen sulfide baths at home
On sale there are special compositions for conducting baths at home. But it is very important to follow all precautions and follow the instructions in order to avoid poisoning with volatile hydrogen sulfide vapors. However, it should be understood that baths have a lot of contraindications, before taking them, you should undergo an examination and exclude pathologies, diseases and conditions in which procedures cannot be taken.
Contraindications for hydrogen sulfide baths
There are a number of strict contraindications that cannot be ignored:
- hyperthermia;
- exacerbation of chronic pathology and the acute period of any disease;
- pregnancy;
- fibroids, uterine fibroids and other gynecological diseases against the background of hyperestrogenism;
- tuberculosis;
- chronic diseases of the liver and biliary tract;
- all kidney diseases;
- thyrotoxicosis;
- tendency to bleed;
- blood diseases;
- recurrent myocardial infarction in history;
- decompensated endocarditis or myocarditis;
- angina pectoris of 2 or more degrees, severe stenosis accompanying valvular lesions, atrial fibrillation, blockade of the conduction system of the heart, terminal stages of hypertension;
- oncological diseases;
- bronchial asthma;
- tendency to allergic reactions;
- individual intolerance.
In these conditions and diseases, hydrogen sulfide baths can only bring harm to the body: worsen the condition and lead to exacerbation and progression of pathologies.
Adverse reactions
The course of procedures leads to a significant favorable restructuring of the whole organism, but in a number of patients it is accompanied by a temporary imbalance in the functioning of various systems. This is called a balneological reaction. Main manifestations:
- deterioration of well-being;
- lethargy, weakness;
- sleep disorder;
- local rise in temperature.
There are several degrees of balneological reaction. It can be hidden, subclinical, subclinical with manifestations, of moderate severity, bordering on exacerbation and strong, which almost always leads to an exacerbation of chronic pathology.
A mild balneological reaction does not apply to pathological phenomena. But if the reaction is pronounced, it threatens to exacerbate the disease, from which, in fact, the treatment is carried out, so it should not be allowed. And here there is a very fine line - and the possibility of an acute inflammatory reaction, and its transition to an acute process can be in different patients with the same intensity of balneological procedures, i.e. the benefits and harms of treatment are actually on two scales. Therefore, it is very important to choose all the parameters of the treatment in accordance with the reactivity of the patient's body.
The most popular resorts and sanatoriums in Russia with natural hydrogen sulfide sources
Matsesta
The most famous Russian resort located near Sochi. Matsesta mineral water is distinguished by a record concentration of hydrogen sulfide over 700 mg/dm3. In addition, the climate of the resort is unique - this is the only place in Russia with humid subtropics. In a relatively small area, mineral waters with different concentrations of hydrogen sulfide are brought to the surface of the earth, which are indicated for balneotherapy.
In Sochi there is the only plant in the country for the preparation of medium-mineralized highly sulfide therapeutic mud from local freshwater silts and Matsesta strong hydrogen sulfide water. These muds have found application in the resort's sanatoriums. In addition, they are also exported to other resorts in the country in packaged form.
Hydrogen sulfide baths in the body of Mount Mashuk
These are the oldest baths in Pyatigorsk, which are formed in natural rock in places where hydrogen sulfide sources come to the surface of the earth. These baths have long been a source of health for the local population. The people spoke of them as "shameless" or "Yermolov's" baths. They still exist today: modern bathroom buildings were built above them, where patients from all over the world come for treatment.
Resort "Sergievsky Mineralnye Vody"
located in the Samara region, or rather, in the steppe part of the Samara Trans-Volga region. There are multi-debit sources of hydrogen sulfide waters, which have no analogues on the territory of the Russian Federation. These are low-mineralized hydrocarbonate-sulfate magnesium-calcium waters, the concentration of hydrogen sulfide in which is 50-100 mg/dm 3 . The resort is also rich in lake-key medium sulphide mud.
Resort "Ust-Kachka" is located in Perm Krai
It is rich in natural iodine-bromine and hydrogen sulfide waters, which are extracted from a well depth of 200-500 m. Hydrogen sulfide water belongs to 2 groups: brine with a concentration of H2S and HS 76 g / dm 3 and very strong (301 mg / dm 3). Used for baths, as well as irrigation for the gums and scalp.
The history of the resort is interesting - hydrogen sulfide mineral waters were accidentally discovered in 1935 during geological exploration, when healing water was extracted from the Glavneft well. Its composition turned out to be close in composition to the sources of Matsesta, and after a while a health resort was built here.
Balneo-mud resort "Usolye" is located in the Irkutsk region
The natural water deposit is unique both in its composition and in its formation. Usolsky waters are saturated with bromine, chlorine and sodium, iodine, silicic acid, potassium, manganese and hydrogen sulfide. Water, flowing through underground labyrinths, washes the rocks and is saturated with useful minerals, salts, gases, acquires healing value, and comes to the surface in the form of springs and springs with the help of natural pressure. Those. sources are natural in all respects.
Hydrogen sulfide baths in Abkhazia
On the territory of Abasia there are many natural sources of mineral waters with hydrogen sulfide, which are popular.
- In Kyndyga there are famous thermal springs, the water from which has T +110 C at the outlet, flows down the mountain, cools down to a comfortable temperature and enters special distribution troughs, under which you can take a kind of healing shower.
- Besletka is a river located on the edge of Sukhumi. It is here that 7 wells were drilled, from where warm waters are extracted with a temperature of +29 to +42 and enter special baths.
- The hydrogen sulfide source in Gagra contains about 44.2 mg/l of hydrogen sulfide, the outlet water temperature reaches +43 C.
- The hydrogen sulfide springs in the village of Primorsky are a modern small complex where, in addition to water treatment, you can also take procedures with healing mud.
Some patients are wondering if it is possible to take hydrogen sulfide baths if they are intolerant to the specific smell of hydrogen sulfide? If this condition is not associated with an allergy to the substance, then some discomfort can be tolerated, for example, by using a special nose clip during the procedure.
On March 19, Moscow was covered not for the first time by smog and the smell of hydrogen sulfide was felt. The media reported that the content of hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen oxide was exceeded in the city.
According to Mosekomonitoring, their concentrations exceeded the maximum one-time maximum concentration limit in the south of the capital by about 2 times. Keyword- "maximum one-time". If the numbers were named correctly, then this is a lot. Highly. At this concentration, without harm to health, you can breathe for a couple of hours. In contrast to the average daily MPC, at which you can breathe for tens of hours and a day. How long these concentrations lasted (or still hold) in Moscow is unknown.
Mosecomonitoring data from March 17 to March 19, as can be seen on the graph, for Lublino, the concentration was exceeded by almost 2 times for H2S (hydrogen sulfide) and NO (nitric oxide).
Mosecomonitoring data from March 17 to March 19, as can be seen on the graph, in the area of the monitoring station MNPZ-Golovachev, the concentration was exceeded by almost 3 times for H2S (hydrogen sulfide) and 2 times for NO (nitric oxide).
Hydrogen sulfide is a gas of the second hazard class (only the first is higher). It is a strong neurotoxin, including binding to iron, causing hypoxia. It also affects the respiratory tract. At the same time, the odor perceptibility threshold is 0.014-0.03 mg/m3. Significant odor - at 4 mg/m3, and severe - at 7-11 mg/m3. That is, if you smell even a little hydrogen sulfide near your home or office, then you can already record the excess of the MPC. At acute poisoning H2S causes burning and sore throat when swallowing, conjunctivitis, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, tachycardia, convulsions are possible.
Nitric oxide is a gas of the third hazard class, but is very quickly converted in the atmosphere into nitrogen dioxide, a gas of the second hazard class. It affects the respiratory tract, worsens their conductivity even in small concentrations.
Nitrogen dioxide also has an unpleasant odor, like hydrogen sulfide. The nose quickly gets used to the smell of hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen dioxide, and we stop feeling it, despite the excess.
Important to know: gauze bandages are useless against harmful gases, including H2S.
It is better for people with respiratory diseases (asthma, emphysema, etc.) to wait out the release in another area or outside the city, just in case, or at least stay at home these days. There are more chances to protect yourself from harmful gases. Closing the windows is not enough - the apartment is not a submarine, there are many gaps. At a minimum, turn on an air purifier with a good and, most importantly, new adsorption (carbon) filter. The best option is a “gas mask for an apartment”: a system (for offices and large buildings), or; necessarily with new adsorption (charcoal) filters. Such a system supply ventilation will give the air needed for breathing and reduce the concentration of toxins. Household air conditioners, sinks, ionizers will not help - they will not give fresh air and will not protect against toxic gases.
Opinion of an expert in the field of air purity, Mikhail Amelkin:
“In general, journalists asked me today - how do I think that all of a sudden this happened in Moscow, that almost every month there are new emissions. My opinion is that nothing unexpected happened. It's just that we are finally beginning to understand that we live in a new ecological reality. The technogenic future has already arrived, we just did not pay attention to it. In China, this was understood 5 years ago, they look at the level of air pollution on smartphones, like a weather forecast. Well, they are adapting to the new reality. If leaving the city is not an option, then you need to think about special equipment to protect against modern ecology. Create a safe microclimate at least at home. Increase your knowledge about air and types of pollution. This has already happened to water, now it has come to air. At the current rate of air pollution around the world, it is only surprising that we realized this so late.”