Cahul sees growing demand for spa therapies, especially among post-COVID patients and children
Balneo-sanatoria treatments and saline therapy are increasingly popular in the Republic of Moldova due to their beneficial effects on the respiratory and musculoskeletal systems and overall health. At the sanatorium in Cahul, where mineral water with unique properties is the primary therapeutic factor, patients receive treatment for a wide range of ailments. The saline therapy facility, inaugurated in 2016, attracts both adults and children and offers procedures that alleviate inflammation, chronic bronchitis, and post-COVID complications.
Spa treatments and salt therapy procedures are among the most effective methods for improving various health conditions, according to specialists featured in a Radio Moldova broadcast. A sanatorium with a long-standing tradition in these therapies operates in the municipality of Cahul, where the primary treatment factor is the curative mineral water.
Dr. Elena Șișianu explains that the institution caters to patients with multiple health issues, referred by their family doctors: "The sanatorium treats patients with various conditions [...] We treat central and peripheral nervous system disorders, musculoskeletal issues, cardiovascular problems, digestive ailments, gynecological conditions, and skin disorders."
She notes that treatments are adjusted based on the length of the rehabilitation leaves: "From the National House of Trade Unions, you can purchase 12, 13, or 18-day leaves for a stay of 18 days."
When asked about the most common requests from patients, Dr. Șișianu clarifies that these recommendations are made by specialists: "Patients can request various treatments, but the doctor recommends what is appropriate based on the days they will be undergoing treatment with us."
Among the sanatorium's facilities is a unique salt mine, the first of its kind in the Republic of Moldova, inaugurated in 2016 and accommodating up to 100 patients at a time. For its construction, approximately 100 tons of salt were sourced from the Târgu Ocna mine in Romania, along with Himalayan salt.
The salt mine is a crucial component of the institution's therapeutic offerings, alongside various treatments. "There is a bath section with sulfurous water. When mineral baths are contraindicated, artificial baths are offered. We also have a physiotherapy section, an ozokerite treatment area, hydrotherapy facilities, showers, a swimming pool, and steliotherapy in the salt mine," says Dr. Șișianu.
She emphasizes the effectiveness of these procedures, especially in recovering from severe respiratory diseases: "These procedures are beneficial, particularly after COVID-19. Many patients who've suffered pneumonia are left with chronic bronchitis. We also treat children, who often experience great improvements."
An increasing number of parents are opting to bring their children to salt therapy sessions, usually consisting of eight to ten treatments, due to the positive effects on respiratory health and the immune system.
However, specialists caution that salt therapy is not recommended for individuals with pulmonary tuberculosis, severe arterial hypertension, or those who have recently experienced a myocardial infarction. Otherwise, these procedures can help manage respiratory diseases, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and decrease snoring.
