Warnings for Infrared Saunas

In Finland, saunas are very common and are found in many homes.

Saunas are found in fitness centers, spas, resorts and homes. The infrared sauna uses infrared rays to warm up the closed environment. The rays produce heat that makes people using the sauna sweat. Many sauna users choose infrared therapy because they believe the sweating releases stress and toxins, or cleans pores.

Unsafe Populations

Certain people should be extremely careful about or avoid sauna usage. Pregnant women who have any concerns during pregnancy should avoid the infrared therapy. Children under the age of 16 should be supervised by adults for side effects. Sauna treatments should be limited to 30 minutes and under for all people. The first rule of infrared sauna use is to take a buddy. Being alone means you'd get no help if you fainted or became ill during a session. If the sauna you are using admits only one person at a time, tell operator how long you plan to be in the area as a safety precaution.

Skin and Respiratory

Infrared saunas can cause complications in people who have respiratory problems. Traditional steam saunas often provide comfort to those who need warm moist air, but infrared heat produces dry, hot air that can cause complications for people with respiratory illnesses. Sweating caused by the infrared heat can cause itching and irritation for people who have some skin disorders, according to "Infrared Sauna Reference." If you have a skin disorder such as eczema, carefully monitor skin color and any type of discomfort.

Cardiovascular

People with a history of or current heart problems should not use a sauna unless they have doctor's approval. Specifically, people who have had recent heart attacks, severe aortic stenosis or unstable angina pectoris should not use an infrared sauna. Circulatory and cardiovascular problems can be agitated by hot dry heat that can cause sweating and blood pressure changes. Signs that the heat is negatively affecting the body include nausea, a lack of sweating, dizziness or fast heartbeat. Alcohol can increase these effects and cause other health problems when coupled with cardiovascular problems such as arrhythmia.

Warning

Although saunas are common and people use them every day, it is wise to consult with your personal physician before using an infrared sauna for the first time, especially if you have health problems. A physician can confirm studies that have shown the benefits and disadvantages of using the sauna. Ask your physician about medications and infrared heat. Some medications, such as those for acne medications, decrease a person's tolerance of sunlight.

References

• The Infrared Sauna Reference; Infrared Sauna Side Effects or Risks?
• Flat Abs Fitness Programs; Remember These Sauna Warning Signs; Jill Yutz
• Health-Train; Sauna Warning Signs, and When You Should Take a Step Out
• Apex Sauna and Steam Baths; Sauna Bath Instructions
• Health Guidance; The Latest in Saunas: Infrared
• Infrared Sauna Info

Resources

• How to Build Your Own Sauna and Sweat; Mikkel Aaland; 2011