You’ve probably heard that infrared saunas can work wonders for relaxation and healing and are therefore considered a great tool for when you’re feeling a bit under the weather. 

However, some people are skeptical of these benefits and even question whether or not it is even safe to use infrared saunas when sick. The answer isn’t entirely black and white, in fact, it depends a lot on what symptoms you’re dealing with. 

In this blog, we’ll explain how infrared saunas can potentially support your recovery from illness as well as what to watch out for if you’re considering using one while sick.

Health Benefits of Using an Infrared Sauna

A range of health benefits come from using infrared saunas, which can support your body in everyday life and potentially bolster you during recovery when you’re sick. Several of the most prominent benefits include:

Improved Circulation – The sauna’s heat increases blood circulation, sending more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and tissues. This may accelerate recovery and help your body heal more rapidly.

Muscle Relaxation – When you are ill, especially with the flu, it is very common to have sore, aching muscles. Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit radiant heat which penetrates your muscles and helps loosen them up.

Detoxification – While you are in the sauna, the sweat that is leaving your body takes with it any number of potentially harmful substances. This could certainly help you if you are trying to get rid of any type of infection and can even assist your body in expelling the virus that causes the flu.

Boosted Immune Function – Your immune system can be stimulated by heat exposure. During exposure to heat, the number of white blood cells produced by your body increases. These cells seek out and destroy infections in your body.

Considering these benefits, it’s hardly surprising that infrared saunas enjoy such popularity for overall wellbeing. But what if you’re not well? Can infrared saunas be part of the solution that leads to your feeling better?

Is it beneficial to use an infrared sauna while sick?

If you have a cold, flu, or a related illness, an infrared sauna may help treat the symptoms. Here is how it is useful:

Clearing Out Mucus – The sauna is designed to open airways and sinuses, making it easier to breathe, which will help in clearing out mucus.

Muscle Pain – Combining the flu with body aches and muscle soreness is common. Though painful, those aches and sore muscles can easily be soothed using the infrared sauna.

Increased Energy – Flu and cold symptoms lead to a completely drained feeling of exhaustion. Therapeutic soaking in a sauna can instantly increase energy levels, leaving you feeling refreshed.

Break from stress – It is sometimes necessary to simply relax while being ill. Stepping into an infrared sauna is the perfect way to clear the mind and gain some comfort, helping to speed up the process of recovering from sickness.

It’s crucial to remember that while an infrared sauna can relieve flu symptoms, it cannot replace medical treatment. Always check with your doctor if you’re unsure about using a sauna while you’re sick.

When Should You Avoid Using Infrared Saunas?

As much as infrared saunas can be helpful during many scenarios, in some cases, they might be best avoided. Here’s when we recommend you don’t use a sauna::

High Fever – If you are suffering from high fever, we advise you to skip the sauna. The body heat already present causes additional stress to your body. On top of that, the possibility of dehydration is already a concern, which makes the entire process counterproductive.

Active Infections – Although saunas tend to boost the immune system, using it while suffering from an actively harmful infection can aggravate the situation. To be on the safer side, begin by using the sauna for shorter durations and see how you feel afterward. It is crucial to remember that too much exertion when sick can increase recovery time needed, so contact a medical professional if you are unsure.

Extreme Fatigue – The relaxing and soothing properties of the sauna make it a tempting option for those too weak to even get out of bed, but if that’s the case, more likely than not your body needs rest above all. Looking to the sauna for relief might zap any little energy you still have, so consider avoiding them altogether.

Dehydration – On top of feeling weak and faint, dehydration leaves the body in no shape to deal with heat, so be sure to not use a sauna under these circumstances.

Summary

If you consider using an infrared sauna when you have a cold, it can help soothe sore muscles as well as fatigue. The heat can do wonders like helping to circulate your blood, calm the body down, and bolster your immune system.

But whenever you’re doing something that can affect your health, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor first.

For questions regarding the impact of infrared saunas on your health, feel free to contact us today.