Risks of Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a safe and efficient way to reduce pain and inflammation, promote tissue healing, and increase blood flow to the affected area. Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) works by penetrating tissue and activating biochemical reactions within cells. This reduces pain, promotes healing, and speeds up recovery time for injured areas.
1. Burns
Burns are skin injuries caused by scalding, sun exposure, chemical and electricity exposure or smoke inhalation. Laser therapy is one way to reduce the inflammation caused by burns. First-degree burns are superficial and cause pain, redness and swelling; second-degree burns cause significant tissue damage while third-degree burns completely destroy the top layer of skin, leaving behind white scars.
Laser treatments can be useful for alleviating the symptoms of a traumatic burn, such as itching, pain and decreased mobility. They have even been known to reduce hypertrophic scars – thicker and more prominent than regular skin tissue – caused by burns.
2. Changes in skin color
Laser treatments are safe and effective for people of all skin colors, provided they’re administered by trained professionals. However, as with any type of treatment, lasers may cause side effects. One potential risk is changes to skin color, particularly if you’ve been tanning prior to the procedure. This is because some lasers can damage tanned or olive-colored skin tones and lead to hypo- or hyperpigmentation as well as scarring. If this occurs, contact your dermatologist immediately.
Lasers can be highly effective for treating skin conditions like melasma, but they may also lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This condition occurs when there is an allergic reaction to the laser and damage occurs on the affected area. Temporary or permanent photoaging can occur, particularly among those with darker skin tones. To minimize the risk, apply sunscreen before and after laser resurfacing. Furthermore, consult with a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist about the risks and advantages associated with your specific treatment before proceeding with any procedure.
3. Infection
Laser therapy is a non-invasive and highly effective way to treat many medical conditions. It has the potential to reduce pain and inflammation while stimulating nerve regeneration, muscle relaxation, and the immune system response. Laser light interacts with chromophores on cells and subcellular organelles within the body to stimulate energy production and raise ATP levels. This improves cellular health, promotes DNA synthesis and increases cell metabolism.
Patients undergoing cutaneous laser resurfacing should be warned of the potential infection, which is identified by pain, increased erythema, purulent discharge, crusting or delayed wound healing. Infectious complications such as reactivation of herpes simplex virus should be addressed promptly to prevent further spread and permanent scarring.
Laser therapy has minimal risks if patients adhere to their doctor’s care instructions, which include quitting smoking and avoiding unprotected sun exposure for up to two months before treatment, as well as arranging transportation home after the procedure. If you are looking for a clinic that offers laser therapy, visit Total Health & Rehab Center and schedule an appointment with their team of specialists.
4. Changes in heart rate
Changes in heart rate are rare but can occur if your heart isn’t functioning optimally. This could lead to various issues like fainting, fatigue, chest pains and memory lapses. Symptoms may worsen if your oxygen level drops too low or if you suffer from hypoxia (low levels of oxygen in your blood). You should use a pulse oximeter regularly to monitor your oxygen level.
Laser therapy is generally safe and effective for most people with lung or heart conditions. However, there are some exceptions that should not receive this type of therapy. Some people with epilepsy and pregnant women should avoid laser therapy due to its potential seizure-triggering properties and possible effects on the fetus. If you have any of these conditions, consult your doctor about whether you can benefit from laser treatment. Additionally, let them know if you cough up blood or experience shortness of breath after your procedure.
If you are experiencing neck pain, shoulder pain, or back pain and sciatica, laser therapy could be a beneficial treatment option for you. To learn more and schedule an appointment, contact Total Health & Rehab Center today.