Far Infrared Sauna

Infrared Saunas are safe and beneficial for the vast majority of people, worldwide. The following caveats list some of the precautions and recommendations for a prudent and productive Infrared Sauna experience.

ELDERLY

“Moderate sauna use is safe for most older people. Diabetics or anyone being treated for heart conditions, circulatory issues, or prescription medication should check with their doctor.” Dr. J. Halperin, M.D., Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York. Age is not a contraindication for infrared sauna use. We have clients in their 90s who enjoy the benefits of regular infrared sauna sessions.

YOUNG CHILDREN

Young children have a high metabolic rate and are less adaptable to higher body core temperatures than adults, due to their limitations of circulatory adaptation and body temperature regulation (sweating). Ages 6 – 12 should spend no more than 20 minutes in an infrared sauna, and be accompanied by an adult. Start with lower temperatures and work up gradually as the child demonstrates the ability to perspire freely. Ages 6 and under should avoid sauna use unless prescribed by a doctor. Teenagers may safely use an infrared sauna, taking particular care to hydrate liberally and not become overheated.

PREGNANT OR LACTATING WOMEN

If you are pregnant, limit your sessions to 10 minutes with a maximum of four sessions per week. ***** NOTE: Exposure to intense heat during the first trimester of pregnancy may slightly increase the risk of birth defects. Consult your physician, as opinions on infrared sauna use during pregnancy vary.
Breastfeeding: There is insufficient empirical evidence to establish whether or not toxins are released, during infrared sauna use, that could enter into breast milk. It would be prudent to reduce or avoid intense sauna therapy during the breastfeeding period.

MENSTRUAL FLOW

Heating of the low back area of women during the menstrual period may temporarily increase their menstrual flow. Once a woman is aware that this may occur, she can choose to allow herself to possibly experience this short-term effect without worry or to simply avoid infrared thermal system use at that time of her cycle. Many women do report relief of other common symptoms related to menstruation including relief of bloating, cramping, and headaches.

IMPLANTS

Metal pins, rods, artificial joints, or any other surgical implants generally reflect infrared rays and thus are not heated by the infrared sauna; nevertheless, you should consult your surgeon before using an infrared thermal modality. Silicone absorbs some infrared energy. Implanted silicone or silicone prostheses for nose or ear replacement may be warmed slightly by the infrared rays. Since silicone melts at over 200 degrees, it should not be adversely affected by the usage of an infrared thermal system and is considered safe in most circumstances. Saline implants may warm slightly as the body core temperature elevates, but infrared sauna use should be safe and without discomfort or problematic symptoms. **** We always recommend that you check with your surgeon and/or the product manufacturer’s representative before using an infrared sauna. ****

HEAT SENSITIVITY

It is considered inadvisable to raise the core temperature too high in someone with adrenal suppression and systemic lupus or multiple sclerosis, by some authorities. For patients with these health considerations, some physicians recommend shorter infrared sauna sessions at lower temperatures with a friend nearby in case a physical weakening may occur. We have had good reports from our clients with lupus and multiple sclerosis. Mild radiant body heating produces a wonderful cardiovascular improvement, carrying increased amounts of healing oxygen throughout the body, even if clients do not sweat profusely.

Individuals with total Heat Insensitivity or who cannot perspire or sweat or emit body heat should probably refrain from infrared sauna use. As always, Check with your Doctor first.

RECENT INJURY

If you have a sprain, bruising, laceration, or surgery, the affected area(s) should not be heated for the first 48 hours after an injury OR until the swelling has reduced. Start with short sessions of 15-20 minutes at a lower temperature (115-120 degrees) and work your way up. Mild stretching exercises work wonders for rehabilitating injuries like ACL and Rotator Cuff surgery. Proper Infrared Sauna Therapy speeds the healing of wounds and injuries dramatically.

BLEEDING DISORDERS

Hemophiliacs and anyone predisposed to hemorrhage should avoid infrared thermal system usage or any type of heating that would induce vasodilatation or stimulated circulation, which can increase the tendency to bleed.

DIABETES

Start your infrared sauna program slowly and monitor any unusual changes in blood sugar. Infrared sauna use does not increase the blood sugar level or the body’s consumption of glucose.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Using an infrared sauna does not normally raise blood pressure. You may use a blood pressure monitor during your session to observe BP rates. Although the heart rate is increased during infrared sauna use, vasodilation of all the blood vessels in the body and increased blood circulation allows for a lowering of blood pressure in many users, both short and long-term. Regular infrared sauna use is a highly effective, passive cardiovascular activity for folks with limited physical exercise capability.

STINTS AND PACEMAKERS

In many instances, clients with stints and pacemakers may use the sauna safely. Check with your Physician and/or the manufacturer of the particular product.

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS

If you are using any prescription drugs, check with your physician for any possible change in the drug’s effect due to any interaction with infrared heat. Very rarely does heating the body alter the properties or effects of a prescribed medication. Corticosteroids may be a contraindicated substance. Some antihistamines contain ephedrine and may increase heart rate inordinately during sauna use.

ELIMINATION OF MEDICATIONS / HEALING REACTIONS

During infrared sauna therapy, it is common for the body to eliminate residues of prescription and “over-the-counter” medications… even those ingested many years past. Such residues can include ingredients found in antibiotics, narcotics, sedatives, stimulants, chemotherapy, cold medicines, sleep and allergy aids, etc. Occasionally, the release of these substances can result in temporary effects similar to the action of the drug when first taken, i.e., Novocain expulsion may temporarily produce a slight numbness in the jaw from a previous dental injection. Purging your system of antibiotics can sometimes alter digestive bacteria balance and constipation or diarrhea may be a symptom. In most instances, these effects pass quickly as residues are excreted. “According to Dr. L. Wilson, M.D., and Homeopathic Practitioner, “Healing Reactions are temporary symptoms associated with eliminating toxic substances, healing chronic infections or due to other metabolic changes in the body. They are an important part of all deep healing.” As some toxins are mobilized from storage sites throughout the body, they are transported by the blood to the liver, primarily. Toxins must be processed by the organs of elimination, including the liver, kidneys, colon, lungs, and skin. The metabolic process of expelling toxins sometimes results in mild and short-lived “flare-ups” or experienced symptoms of a previous illness, virus, or physical trauma. Most healing reactions are mild and pass quickly. Symptoms may include diarrhea, constipation, aches, pains, muscle cramps, sinus discharges, odors, minor rashes, headaches, irritability, and fatigue. Mood swings and emotional reactions may occur on rare occasions and are the result of changes in body chemistry and neurotransmitter levels.”