A sick woman who could benefit from using an IR sauna.

How Does an IR Sauna Benefit Sick Individuals?

At certain times of the year and during flu seasons, most of us can find it likely to get sick, and strive to find a remedy to get back in shape. From home remedies like drinking tea to feel quick relief from symptoms, to seeking medication from an appointment with your general practitioner – both casual and high-octane approaches to dealing with your symptoms are in the landscape of how users want to get better. Thankfully, research suggests that IR sauna benefits may be a viable route to a quick and relaxing way to recover while sick, while simultaneously imparting numerous benefits to your health.

In this article, join Sun Stream Saunas as we discuss how infrared saunas work, how they can aid in recovery, as well as explain the processes your body is subjected to while undergoing a sauna session.

 

How Infrared Saunas Help Deal With Sickness

Using infrared saunas can be a natural detoxification method, as they induce a deep sweat brought about by rising past the body’s thermoregulation limit (37°C). This process is a safe, proven, and effective way for your body to flush out toxins such as pathogens, impurities, and pollutants currently inhabiting your body, as being a primary means of the body in eliminating waste, alongside excretion of waste via urine.

Additionally, have you ever noticed that your body tends to unconsciously crave heat, and will find ways to increase your core body temperature? The effect of infrared saunas on your body is the same as when consuming hot meals such as soups or teas when coming down with a fever.

There is a scientific explanation for this phenomenon. According to Cell Press, raising your core body temperature increases your white blood cell and lymphocyte count, which helps your immune system better defend from pathogens invading your body in a bid to help you recover faster.

Infrared saunas work the same way, by artificially inducing a fever heat and activating several physiological processes– better nasal congestion, enhanced blood flow, and improved immune system function that will holistically help you recover faster.

Our Sun Stream models, in particular, use heaters that emit little to no electromagnetic fields (around <1mg).

This is especially paramount when dealing with sickness as according to WHO, electromagnetic field exposure higher than 2.5 mg disrupts our own electric and biochemical responses, which may cause us to feel even more sick, especially individuals with already weak immune systems. 

 

Things To Consider When Using Infrared Saunas While Sick

As your body is more sensitive than usual when dealing with sickness, it’s important to adequately hydrate yourself before, during, and after using an infrared sauna.

When you are sick, your body requires even more fluids than usual to keep fighting the infection inside you. Furthermore, sickness can be very dehydrating as mucus production is in overdrive, which can diminish your fluid reserves. This may manifest as symptoms such as:

  • Sneezing
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Watery eyes
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Sweating due to fever
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting

Moreover, while using infrared saunas can help alleviate some symptoms, you can stack the following health-promoting practices for added preventative protection:

  • Stick to a well-balanced diet and avoid alcohol
  • Take daily multivitamins according to your doctor’s recommendation
  • Set up an exercise routine
  • Regularly wash your hands 
  • Schedule regular doctor’s checkups
  • Keep your surroundings clean

Take Better Care of Your Health With Sun Stream Saunas

The next time you’re feeling like you’re coming down with the flu or already ill, try getting in an infrared sauna session with ample hydration. Not only is it beneficial for you physically, but it also helps mentally as saunas can help you relax.

Of course, we highly recommend talking to your general practitioner first, and clearly communicating any health concerns before using an infrared sauna to avoid any complications.

If you’re looking for more tips for IR sauna benefits or considering purchasing an infrared sauna to take home, reach out to us today and let us help you pick one that calls out best to you.