Revealed : Is Sauna Good for Colds?

While saunas offer these positive effects, they do not directly cure colds. However, they may help alleviate some symptoms, such as muscle aches, nasal congestion, and a runny nose. That said, saunas are not suitable for everyone when dealing with a cold. For some individuals, they may provide relief, while for others, they can worsen symptoms.

When the body is fighting a cold, the immune system is actively working, and staying hydrated is essential. The high temperature and humidity in a sauna can lead to dehydration, which may aggravate cold symptoms. Therefore, the effects of using a sauna during a cold vary from person to person. If you are considering using a sauna while sick, it is best to consult a doctor to ensure it is safe and beneficial for you.

Many people believe that sweating in a sauna helps detoxify the body. However, the virus responsible for a cold is not expelled through sweat; instead, the immune system clears it.

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How Long Should I Stay in a Sauna?

Saunas are a traditional form of heat therapy that offer numerous benefits. The high-temperature environment helps relax muscles, reduce fatigue, and relieve muscle tension.

Saunas also promote blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow. The heat opens pores, leading to heavy sweating, which helps remove dirt and toxins from the skin’s surface. Additionally, saunas can help clear the respiratory tract, relieving symptoms such as nasal congestion and a runny nose. The relaxing atmosphere also helps reduce stress, and some studies suggest that regular sauna use may support immune system function.

Despite these benefits, it is not advisable to stay in a sauna for too long, as excessive heat exposure can cause discomfort. The ideal duration varies from person to person and should be based on individual tolerance, comfort level, and physical condition. Generally, 15 to 20 minutes is the recommended time, but this may not apply to everyone. Some individuals can comfortably stay longer, while others may feel discomfort after a shorter period.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable sauna experience, listen to your body and leave the sauna immediately if you experience any discomfort. After exiting, rest in a well-ventilated area and rehydrate properly to prevent dehydration.

What Is the Difference Between an Infrared Sauna and a Far Infrared Sauna?

Let’s explore the differences between the two types of infrared rays.

Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas typically use infrared lamps or heating plates to generate infrared radiation for heating. The temperature inside an infrared sauna usually ranges between 40°C and 60°C, which is relatively low compared to other types of saunas.

These saunas primarily use carbon fiber heating plates, which provide even heat distribution over a large area. This gradual warming effect helps to promote blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, relax the body and mind, and reduce fatigue.

Far Infrared Sauna

Far infrared saunas utilize far infrared radiation, which has a longer wavelength and deeper penetration than standard infrared. This allows the heat to reach deeper layers of the skin and tissues.

While the temperature of a far infrared sauna is also 40°C to 60°C, its strong penetration effect creates a more intense heating experience, even at lower temperatures. As a result, far infrared saunas can enhance blood circulation, promote detoxification, and support immune function more effectively than regular infrared saunas.

Medical Infrared vs. Far Infrared Saunas

Hospitals use medical infrared technology to treat wounds by reducing inflammation, promoting healing, and drying wound surfaces. However, it is important to note that the wavelengths and temperature controls of medical infrared and far infrared saunas are completely different. Therefore, marketing far infrared saunas as medical devices is inaccurate and misleading.

What Should You Wear in the Sauna?

When visiting a sauna, it is generally recommended to wear light, breathable, and comfortable clothing. This helps you fully experience the heat while allowing sweat to evaporate efficiently. Here are some clothing suggestions for a sauna session:

Swimsuit or Swimming Trunks – Lightweight and breathable

swimwear allows for a more enjoyable sauna experience.

Loose-Fitting Cotton or Sportswear – If the sauna facility permits

clothing, light cotton or athletic wear can be a good choice for comfort.

Clean Slippers – Wearing slippers helps maintain hygiene and prevents direct contact with the sauna floor.

It’s important to follow the sauna facility’s guidelines, as some places may require going without clothing for hygiene and traditional reasons.

Additionally, if you have a cold, keeping warm after leaving the sauna is crucial. Sudden exposure to cooler temperatures may worsen your symptoms.

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How Many Calories Do You Burn in a Sauna?

A sauna does not significantly increase calorie expenditure. Instead, it primarily stimulates blood circulation and promotes sweating through high temperatures rather than boosting metabolism to burn calories.

The number of calories burned in a sauna varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including:

• Body weight
• Sauna temperature and humidity
• Duration of the session
• Individual physical condition

In a high-temperature sauna, the body sweats profusely, leading to temporary weight loss due to water loss. However, once rehydrated, the weight returns to normal. While saunas do not directly burn a significant amount of calories, they can be combined with exercise and a healthy diet to support overall wellness and body management.

Can You Bring Your Phone into a Sauna?

In today’s digital age, many people take their phones everywhere—including the sauna. However, it is not recommended to bring your phone into a sauna for several reasons:

• Overheating Risks – The high temperature in a sauna can cause your
• phone to overheat, potentially damaging the battery and internal components.
• Moisture Damage – Steam and humidity may penetrate the phone, leading to circuit malfunctions or even permanent damage.
• Safety Concerns – Overheating and moisture exposure can create safety hazards, such as reduced battery life or short circuits.
• Distraction from Relaxation – Sauna sessions are meant for relaxation and meditation. Using a phone can disrupt the experience and reduce the benefits of the session.

To protect your phone and enhance your sauna experience, it is best to leave it in a safe, dry place before entering.

How Much Does a Sauna Cost?

The cost of using or owning a sauna depends on various factors, including location, facilities, and service quality. Here’s a general breakdown:

Public Saunas

Saunas in fitness clubs, health centers, and hotels typically offer high-quality equipment and services, making them more expensive. Public fitness centers may provide more affordable sauna access, but they can be crowded during peak hours.

Home Saunas

If you have enough space and budget, installing a home sauna is a great option. It allows you to enjoy sauna sessions anytime with enhanced hygiene and privacy. The price varies depending on the size, materials, and features of the sauna.

Custom-Built Saunas

For those seeking a personalized sauna experience, customizing a sauna room is an excellent choice.

Alphasauna, a leading sauna manufacturer, offers customized sauna solutions that can provide an exceptional experience at a competitive price.

Regardless of which option you choose, it’s essential to consider your budget, personal needs, and safety requirements while ensuring the sauna meets hygiene and quality standards.