Saunas are a popular way to relax and unwind, but is it good to sauna when sick? This question often arises when people look for ways to alleviate symptoms or boost their recovery.
Essentially, a sauna is a small room designed to be heated to high temperatures, typically between 150°F and 195°F. People use saunas to relax, relieve stress, and improve their overall well-being. The heat causes you to sweat, which can help cleanse your skin and rid your body of toxins. Many find the experience rejuvenating and beneficial for their health.
How Saunas Actually Work?
Saunas work by increasing your body’s core temperature. This heat exposure can stimulate your cardiovascular system, much like moderate exercise does. Your heart rate increases, and your blood vessels dilate, improving circulation. The sweat produced helps to flush out toxins and impurities from your body, providing a deep cleanse for your skin.
Regular sauna sessions can help reduce the risk of illnesses by improving your circulation and helping your body detoxify. Similarly, they can also help in muscle recovery after exercise and promote relaxation, reducing stress levels.
Is It Good to Sauna When Sick?
So, is it good to sauna when sick? The answer is generally no, especially if you have a cold or the flu. The high heat of a sauna can cause further dehydration, which is already a risk when you are sick. Dehydration can worsen your symptoms and make it harder for your body to recover.
When you are sick, staying hydrated is crucial. Your body needs fluids to fight off the infection and maintain proper function. Saunas can increase the risk of dehydration because they cause you to sweat profusely. This loss of fluids, coupled with the fluids your body is already losing from illness, can be detrimental.
Another reason to avoid saunas when sick is the added heat stress. Your body is already under stress from fighting an infection. Adding the extreme heat of a sauna can place additional strain on your cardiovascular system.
Thus, this can lead to dizziness, fatigue, and even fainting, making you feel worse instead of better.
What to Do Instead?
Instead of using a sauna, focus on rest and hydration when you are sick. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and broths. Rest as much as possible to give your body the energy it needs to fight the infection. Use a humidifier to keep the air moist, which can help ease congestion and soothe your throat.
However, if you do decide to use a sauna, make sure to do it safely. Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after your session. Limit your time in the sauna to 15-20 minutes to avoid overheating. Listen to your body and step out if you start feeling dizzy or uncomfortable.
Back to the question again: Is it good to sauna when sick? The answer is no, particularly if you have a cold or flu. The risk of dehydration and added heat stress can worsen your symptoms and delay your recovery. Instead, focus on rest and hydration to support your body as it fights off the illness.