Saunas are known for their health benefits, prompting questions about their use during illness, especially with COVID-19. Understanding how sauna heat affects the body is important. This article clarifies the physiological effects of sauna use and its appropriateness during an active COVID-19 infection.
The Body’s Physiological Response to Sauna Heat
Sauna heat rapidly increases skin temperature, raising core body temperature by 1-3°C. This heat exposure triggers several physiological adjustments to maintain thermal balance. Heart rate increases to 100-150 beats per minute, similar to moderate activity, as the body circulates blood more efficiently.
Blood vessels near the skin dilate (vasodilation), directing more blood flow to the skin to dissipate heat. This increased blood flow leads to profuse sweating, with up to a liter of fluid lost per hour. These responses help regulate internal temperature and contribute to warmth and relaxation.
Risks of Sauna Use During Acute Illness
Sauna use during acute illness, such as a respiratory infection, introduces several dangers. Significant fluid loss through sweating, especially with fever or other symptoms that can lead to dehydration, risks electrolyte imbalance and further dehydration. Dehydration can exacerbate general malaise and hinder recovery.
Elevated heart rate and increased demands on the circulatory system during a sauna session place cardiovascular strain on the body. For someone with an infection, this added stress can be detrimental, especially if their heart is already working harder. This demand can worsen existing conditions or create new complications.
While saunas raise body temperature, this external heat is distinct from the body’s natural fever response. Introducing additional heat can overwhelm the body’s thermoregulatory mechanisms, worsening discomfort, or leading to heat exhaustion when the body is already struggling to regulate its temperature. Furthermore, the physiological demands of a sauna divert energy the body requires to mount an effective immune response against the infection.
Guidance for Sauna Use and COVID-19
Given the physiological demands and risks, sauna use is not recommended during an active COVID-19 infection. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as respiratory distress, fever, or fatigue should avoid saunas. The body is already under significant stress fighting the virus, and the added strain could compromise recovery.
Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice is recommended, especially for those with underlying health conditions or severe symptoms. A medical expert can provide guidance tailored to an individual’s health status and the severity of their infection. Prioritizing rest and medical care is important during the acute phase of COVID-19.
After full recovery from COVID-19 and receiving clearance from a medical professional, some individuals might consider reintroducing sauna use for general well-being. However, saunas are not a treatment for lingering post-COVID issues or a substitute for medical guidance in managing long-term symptoms. Any return to sauna use should be gradual and monitored.