The study led by Chih-Ching Lin and his team explored how far infrared (FIR) therapy, commonly used in treatments like infrared saunas, can reduce inflammation in blood vessels. Specifically, they looked at how FIR helps reduce inflammation in the blood vessels of patients who need hemodialysis, a treatment that often involves creating an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) to help with blood flow. The researchers found that FIR therapy helps produce a protein called heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in blood vessel cells. This protein plays a key role in reducing inflammation by blocking the production of harmful molecules that cause swelling and irritation in blood vessels. The anti-inflammatory effects of FIR were similar to the effects of a substance called bilirubin, which is known to help protect the body from inflammation.
The study suggests that FIR therapy could be beneficial for people with AVFs, especially those undergoing hemodialysis, because it helps keep the blood vessels open and functioning well. By reducing inflammation, FIR therapy might help maintain better blood flow and prevent AVFs from becoming blocked or damaged. These results show that FIR therapy could have broader benefits, not just for people undergoing dialysis, but also for anyone looking to manage inflammation or pain in their body. The study was conducted by Chih-Ching Lin and his colleagues in the field of vascular health.
