An infrared (IR) sauna uses specialized heaters to emit light, which the body absorbs as radiant heat. This warms the body directly rather than significantly heating the surrounding air. This mechanism allows the user to experience an increase in core body temperature and deep sweating at lower ambient temperatures compared to traditional saunas. However, the systemic physiological effects of this heat exposure require caution, and certain pre-existing conditions mean infrared sauna use should be avoided for safety.
Individuals with Severe Cardiovascular Conditions
The heat generated in an infrared sauna places a significant physiological demand on the cardiovascular system, mimicking the stress of moderate physical exercise. The body responds by activating thermoregulatory mechanisms, including substantial vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels near the skin’s surface). This response redirects blood flow to the periphery to dissipate heat, directly increasing the workload on the heart.
This heat stress causes a noticeable increase in cardiac output and heart rate. For individuals with compromised heart function, this heightened demand can exceed the heart’s capacity. People with uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension) or very low blood pressure (hypotension) are at risk. Widespread vasodilation can cause sudden, dangerous drops in systemic blood pressure, potentially leading to syncope or fainting.
Specific, serious conditions like congestive heart failure, severe aortic stenosis, or impaired coronary circulation make the risk of using an IR sauna exceptionally high. The strain imposed by the heat may worsen ischemia (a lack of blood flow to the heart muscle) in those with pre-existing coronary artery disease. Anyone who has recently experienced a major cardiac event, such as a heart attack or an unstable angina episode, should avoid this thermal exposure. The rapid changes in heart rate and blood pressure regulation are too destabilizing for a severely compromised circulatory system.
Pregnancy and Vulnerable Populations
Certain demographics face unique risks from elevated core body temperature, warranting caution or complete avoidance of infrared saunas. Pregnant individuals are strongly advised against using saunas, particularly during the first trimester. A sustained rise in the mother’s core body temperature, known as maternal hyperthermia, carries a risk of negatively affecting the developing fetus.
During the organogenesis period in the first trimester, sustained core temperatures above 101 degrees Fahrenheit have been associated with potential harm to the developing neural tube, which can lead to birth defects. The potential for overheating the fetus means that avoidance is the safest recommendation throughout the entire pregnancy. Consulting with an obstetrician is necessary before considering any heat-based therapy.
The elderly population also faces heightened risks because the natural aging process reduces the body’s ability to maintain a stable core temperature. This reduced capability is primarily due to age-related changes in the circulatory system and a decrease in the function of sweat glands. Consequently, older adults are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Similarly, young children have less developed thermoregulatory systems and a higher surface-area-to-mass ratio. This means their core body temperature can rise much faster than an adult’s. They have limited circulatory adaptation to manage increased cardiac demands, making them highly vulnerable to overheating. For these reasons, children and infants should not use infrared saunas unless under strict medical guidance.
Those with Metal Implants and Medical Devices
The presence of foreign materials, such as surgical implants or electronic medical devices, introduces distinct considerations related to heat absorption and electromagnetic interference. While many modern surgical metal implants (including pins, rods, and artificial joints) are often made of materials like titanium, they can still absorb heat from the surrounding tissues. This indirect heating may cause localized discomfort, pain, or potentially damage to nearby soft tissue if the implant overheats.
Individuals who have silicone implants, such as breast or facial prosthetics, should be cautious. Silicone has been shown to absorb infrared energy more readily than surrounding biological tissue. The direct absorption of radiant heat may lead to localized warming that could cause discomfort. Any individual with a metal or silicone implant should consult their surgeon prior to use. If localized pain occurs near the implant, they must immediately discontinue the session.
Electronic medical devices, such as pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), and infusion pumps, present a serious risk. Many infrared saunas contain magnetic components, and the heat itself can affect device function. The magnetic fields can potentially interfere with the pacing rhythm or inhibit the output of pacemakers and ICDs. Furthermore, elevated temperatures may compromise the integrity of the device’s battery or electronic components, risking malfunction.
People Taking Specific Medications or Experiencing Acute Illness
The use of an infrared sauna should be avoided by individuals taking certain medications that interfere with thermal regulation or hydration status. Drugs such as diuretics, which increase urine output, can significantly compound the dehydration caused by heavy sweating. Similarly, certain antihypertensive medications, including beta-blockers, can impair the body’s ability to increase heart rate, a necessary response to heat stress.
Other medications, including some psychoactive drugs like tricyclic antidepressants, can inhibit the sweating mechanism. This makes the user unable to cool themselves effectively. This impaired ability to dissipate heat drastically increases the risk of heat-related illness, such as heat stroke. Anyone taking prescription medication should seek advice from a physician or pharmacist before using a sauna.
Temporary health states or acute illnesses also serve as contraindications for infrared sauna use. An individual with an elevated body temperature, such as a high fever, should not enter a sauna, as the heat will further raise the core temperature to dangerous levels. Acute joint injuries or areas of significant inflammation should also avoid heat exposure, as increased blood flow can exacerbate swelling and pain. Lastly, using a sauna while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances is highly dangerous, as these substances impair judgment and hinder the body’s ability to regulate temperature.