Who Should Be Cautious When Using an Infrared Sauna?

Infrared saunas have now become a part of many people’s wellness routines. They are generally considered safe for healthy adults. However, people with certain health conditions should consult a doctor before using an infrared sauna. For example, pregnant women should consult their doctor before using an infrared sauna. Similarly, people with heart disease or uncontrolled high or low blood pressure should also exercise caution. Since the heat from a sauna can affect heart rate and blood pressure, it is not advisable to use an infrared sauna in these situations without medical advice.

People who have recently had a heart attack or stroke should also not use a sauna without their doctor’s approval. In addition, people with certain neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, or those with heat sensitivity should take extra precautions.

Moreover, if you regularly take any medication, you should consult your doctor before using a sauna. This is because some medications can affect blood pressure as well as the body’s hydration and temperature regulation.

If you are already experiencing dehydration, fever, weakness, or dizziness, you should also avoid using a sauna for the time being. Several well-known universities around the world, including Kagoshima University, Uppsala University, and the University of Eastern Finland, have conducted research on the benefits and potential risks of infrared saunas. You can learn more about these studies by clicking the links provided below: 

•  Kagoshima University, Japan — Important Clinical Research on Far-Infrared Sauna

• Multicenter Randomized Research from Kagoshima University — 2016 

•  2018 Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis — Researchers from Uppsala University

•  University of Eastern Finland — Sauna and Cardiovascular Health Research 

•  University of Jyväskylä, Finland — Sauna Physiology and Human Performance Research

Overall if you have any medical condition or regularly take medication, consulting a healthcare professional before adding an infrared sauna to your routine is the safest approach. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Potential Risks Can Pregnant Women Face When Using an Infrared Sauna?

During pregnancy, the body may be more sensitive to heat. An increase in body temperature while using an infrared sauna may lead to problems such as overheating, dehydration, dizziness, or weakness. Therefore, using an infrared sauna during pregnancy without medical advice is not recommended. If you are pregnant and considering using a sauna, it is better to consult your doctor first.

What Risks Can People With Heart Disease Face When Using an Infrared Sauna?

The heat from an infrared sauna can affect heart rate and blood circulation in people with heart disease. For some individuals, this may place additional strain on the heart, especially if the heart condition is severe or not well controlled. Therefore, people with heart disease should consult their doctor before starting infrared sauna sessions.

Why Should People With High or Low Blood Pressure Be Cautious When Using an Infrared Sauna?

The heat from an infrared sauna can cause blood vessels to dilate and may lead to changes in blood pressure. In people with high blood pressure, these changes may affect them differently, while people with low blood pressure may experience dizziness, weakness, or even fainting. Therefore, if your blood pressure is very high or very low, it is better to consult a doctor before using an infrared sauna.

Why Should You Avoid Using an Infrared Sauna After Drinking Alcohol?

It is better to avoid using an infrared sauna after drinking alcohol because both alcohol and heat can affect the body. Together, they may increase the risk of dehydration and dizziness, and some people may also experience weakness or fainting. Therefore, if you have consumed alcohol, it is safer to give your body time to recover instead of using an infrared sauna.

Can Using an Infrared Sauna Cause Dehydration?

Yes. Sweating during an infrared sauna session can cause the body to lose fluids, which may lead to dehydration. If you are already not drinking enough water or are low on fluids, you may be more likely to experience problems such as dizziness, headaches, or weakness. Therefore, it is important to drink enough water before and after a sauna session. If you notice signs of dehydration, it is better to avoid using the sauna.