Sauna Health Precautions - What Are The Risks?

However, it's important to understand the risks associated with saunas before taking one. These risks can vary depending on a person's health condition, age and other factors.

In this article, we'll cover some key safety tips and precautions that you should keep in mind when using a sauna. With these helpful guidelines, you can enjoy the relaxing and therapeutic effects of a sauna while minimizing any potential risks.

Risks of Sauna Use

Sauna use can have a variety of risks. Here are some of the most COMMON ones to be aware of:

Burns

The most common risk associated with sauna use is skin burns. The intense heat of a sauna can cause skin IRRITATION and even blistering if you stay in too long or the temperature is too high. It's important to be aware of your body's limits and take breaks when needed.

Pro Tip: It is recommended to only stay in the sauna for 15 minutes at a time [1].

Dehydration

Another possible risk of sauna use is dehydration. The heat and HUMIDITY in the sauna can cause you to sweat significantly, leading to a loss of fluids and electrolytes. It's important to stay hydrated before and during your sauna session to prevent dehydration.

Reproductive Effects

Sauna use has been linked to reproductive effects, such as INFERTILITY and decreased libido in men. Studies have also suggested that regular sauna use may reduce sperm count in men, so it's important to be aware of this potential risk before using a sauna regularly [2].

Although MORE research is needed to confirm these effects, it's still important to be aware of them before using a sauna.

May Not Kill All Harmful Organisms

Although saunas are often thought of as a way to kill HARMFUL organisms, they may not always be effective. Some bacteria and viruses can survive the heat of a sauna, so it's important to practice good hygiene when using one.

Don't Drink the Water!

Drinking water from a sauna can be DANGEROUS because it may contain bacteria or other contaminants that could make you sick. It's best to avoid drinking the water from a sauna altogether and stick to drinking bottled water instead.

Don't Use a Sauna to Lose Weight

Using a sauna for weight loss is not recommended because it can lead to dehydration and electrolyte IMBALANCES that can be dangerous for your health.

Additionally, any weight lost while using a sauna is likely to be regained once you stop using it, so it's best to focus on healthy EATING habits and exercise instead.

Studies have shown weight loss can be achieved through a combination of healthy eating, reducing stress levels and exercising regularly [3].

General Chest Pain (Angina Pectoris)

People with heart conditions should take EXTRA caution when using a sauna because it may cause chest pain due to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. If you have any pre-existing heart conditions, talk with your doctor before using a sauna.

Hypotension and Fainting

Sauna use may also cause blood pressure to fall, so people with low blood pressure should talk to their doctor before using one.

Additionally, FAINTING is possible if someone stands up too quickly after being in the heat for an extended period of time, so it's important to take breaks throughout your session and stand up slowly afterwards.

Pro Tip: Take a cool shower after your sauna session to help bring down your body temperature and increase safety.

Arrhythmia and Sudden Hyperthermia

Finally, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) are another potential risk associated with saunas due to the combination of heat exposure and dehydration, which can lead to SUDDEN hyperthermia (abnormally high body temperature) [4].

People who are prone to arrhythmias should consult their doctor BEFORE using a sauna or any other form of heat therapy.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can A Sauna Be Dangerous For People With High Blood Pressure?

Absolutely, those with high blood pressure should avoid using a sauna as it can lead to an unexpected decrease in the person's blood pressure resulting in wooziness and even loss of consciousness.

Is It Safe To Use A Sauna If You Have A History Of Heat Stroke Or Heat Exhaustion?

It is highly recommended to avoid using a sauna if you have a history of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. The intense temperatures and humidity associated with saunas can cause further harm and increase your risk of dangerous complications.

Can Sauna Sessions Cause Hair Loss?

In some cases, regular sauna use can lead to temporary hair loss. This is because the heat from the sauna can damage your hair follicles and weaken the strands of hair. To reduce the risk of this happening, limit your time in the sauna and avoid extreme temperatures.

Conclusion

Saunas have many health benefits and can provide relaxation and stress relief, but they can also be dangerous if not used responsibly.

It's important to understand the potential risks associated with sauna use and take precautions to stay safe. Talk with your doctor before using a sauna if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or take medications that may be affected by heat exposure.

With the right safety measures in place, sauna use can be a safe and beneficial addition to your wellness routine.

Sources -

1. Sutton J. How Much Time to Spend in a Sauna. Healthline. Published January 8, 2019. Accessed February 6, 2023. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-in-a-sauna#
2. NT Contributor. Can regular saunas harm sperm quality? | Nursing Times. Nursing Times. Published April 5, 2013. Accessed February 6, 2023. https://www.nursingtimes.net/news/behind-the-headlines/can-regular-saunas-harm-sperm-quality-05-04-2013/
3. Cox CE. Role of Physical Activity for Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance. Diabetes Spectrum. 2017;30(3):157-160. doi:https://doi.org/10.2337/ds17-0013
4. Hyperthermia: too hot for your health. National Institutes of Health (NIH). Published August 31, 2015. Accessed February 6, 2023. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/hyperthermia-too-hot-your-health-1

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