Sanatorium

Sanatorium is a medical facility for long-term illness, most typically associated with treatment of tuberculosis (TB) in the late-nineteenth and early-twentieth century before the discovery of antibiotics. A distinction is sometimes made between "sanitarium" (a kind of health resort, as in the Battle Creek Sanitarium) and "sanatorium" (a hospital).

History

The first sanatoria were founded in the 18th century in the Swiss Alps. They were developed in the 19th century in the United States of America as a health resort for the city dwellers. The first such establishment was the Adirondack Cottage Sanitarium at Saranac Lake, New York, which opened in 1885, with the specific purpose of treating tuberculosis patients.

Treatment

Treatment at a sanatorium was often long term, typically involving a stay of several months. The goal was to physically rehabilitate patients through rest, good nutrition, and fresh air. In the early 20th century, tuberculosis treatment often involved surgical interventions, including the collapsing of a lung to "rest" it and allow tuberculous lesions to heal.

Modern Use

With the advent of antibiotics in the mid-20th century, the importance of sanatoria diminished. Many were repurposed as hospitals, nursing homes, or centers for rehabilitation. In some countries, they are still used for medical treatment or as health resorts.

See Also

• Tuberculosis
• Adirondack Cottage Sanitarium
• Battle Creek Sanitarium

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