Sauna Side Effects: Risks and How to Stay Safe

Dehydration

Sauna bathing can cause dehydration, especially if you don't drink enough fluids before, during, and after your sauna session. Dehydration can lead to several problems, including dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, and muscle cramps.

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is another risk of sauna bathing. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body loses too much heat and can't cool down quickly enough. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and a rapid pulse.

Heat stroke

Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness and can be fatal. Heat stroke occurs when your body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and extremely high body temperature.

Other side effects

Other possible side effects of sauna bathing include:

* Skin irritation

* Eye irritation

* Nasal congestion

* Headaches

* Anxiety

* Insomnia

If you experience any of these side effects, stop sauna bathing and talk to your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before using a sauna if you have any underlying health conditions, such as:

* Heart disease

* High blood pressure

* Diabetes

* Kidney disease

* Lung disease

* Epilepsy

* Pregnant

Children and pregnant women should not use saunas.