Health & Wellness

13+ Cryotherapy for Weight loss Side effects

Are you tired of the same old weight loss methods that leave you feeling drained and frustrated? Well, fear not! There’s a cool new trend in town that promises to help you shed those extra pounds in a unique way – cryotherapy! But before you jump into the icy chamber, let’s explore the world of cryotherapy for weight loss and take a closer look at cryotherapy for weight loss side effects.

Cryotherapy for Weight loss

Cryotherapy for weight loss, also known as cryolipolysis, is a non-invasive procedure that targets and freezes fat cells, leading to their natural death and subsequent removal by the body’s immune system.

The idea originated from observing the effects of cold on fat cells, such as “cold-induced fat necrosis” seen in children who ate popsicles. This led to the development of a cooling device tested on pigs in 2007, which showed promising results.[source]

Cryotherapy for Weight loss side effects

Cryotherapy involves exposing your body to freezing temperatures to help with weight loss. But before you give it a try, let’s talk about the possible cryotherapy for weight loss side effects

Here we’ll explore the Cryotherapy for weight loss side effects.

Cryotherapy for Weight loss Side effects

1. Skin Irritation

Sometimes, cryotherapy can irritate your skin. It may get red, itchy, or even form blisters. People with sensitive skin need to pay extra attention and take care of any skin reactions.

2. Nerve Damage

Extreme cold can sometimes harm your nerves. This can cause numbness or tingling in the treated areas. Short cryotherapy sessions are usually safe, but long exposures or repeated treatments could increase the risk of nerve-related issues.

3. Cold Burns

If you’re exposed to freezing temperatures for too long, you might get cold burns. These burns can be painful and may need medical attention to heal properly.

4. Respiratory Issues

For people with respiratory conditions, whole-body cryotherapy could be risky. Breathing in extremely cold air can make existing breathing problems worse or cause difficulties for those who are more susceptible.

5. Dizziness and Lightheadedness

When you go from extreme cold to normal temperatures quickly, you might feel dizzy or lightheaded. This sudden change can affect your blood circulation and make you feel unsteady.

6. Increased Heart Rate

Your heart rate might go up when your body tries to stay warm in the cold. While it’s normal, people with heart problems or high blood pressure need to be careful because the extra strain on the heart could be risky.

7. Hypothermia

Hypothermia is rare, but it can happen if you’re exposed to freezing temperatures for too long. It occurs when your body loses more heat than it can produce, leading to a dangerously low body temperature. Signs include shivering, confusion, and, in severe cases, unconsciousness.

8. Allergic Reactions

Some people might have allergic reactions to the materials used in cryotherapy chambers or the cooling agents used during localized treatments. Allergies can cause skin rashes, itching, or swelling. It’s important to address them promptly.

9. Muscle Stiffness

While cryotherapy is often used to relieve muscle soreness, it can sometimes make your muscles even stiffer afterward. This might not be helpful for those seeking relief from muscle discomfort.

10. Scarring

Temporary or permanent scars may form depending on the site and manner of the cryotherapy procedure. 

11. Infection and Blisters

There is a risk of infection, indicated by pus or oozing, and the formation of blisters filled with fluid.

12. Changes in Skin Pigmentation

Cryotherapy may cause the skin to lighten or darken, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones. 

13. Psychological Impact

The intense cold experienced during cryotherapy can make some people feel anxious or uncomfortable. Fear of the cold or being confined in the cryotherapy chamber can lead to psychological stress, overshadowing any perceived weight loss benefits.

Conclusion

Cryotherapy for weight loss is popular, but it’s important to understand the potential side effects. If you’re considering cryotherapy, talk to healthcare professionals, weigh the risks, and make sure you’re well-informed before taking the plunge into this cool weight loss journey. Stay safe and take care of your body!

Dr Maria

MD. Board Certified physician. Fellowship In Family Medicine UK. 8 years of medical experience in Lifestyle-related health disorders. Graduated from AIIMS – All India Institute Of Medical Science, INDIA

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