Feeling hot, achy, and thinking a sauna might help? Let’s slow down for a second.
What Happens to Your Body During a Fever
A fever isn’t an illness—it’s a natural defense mechanism.
When your body detects invaders like viruses or bacteria, it cranks up your internal thermostat to:
- Kill off pathogens
- Boost immune response
- Speed up recovery processes
Typical symptoms of fever include:
- Elevated body temperature (over 100.4°F/38°C)
- Chills and sweating
- Muscle aches
- Weakness and fatigue
Your body is already fighting hard. So, is adding a sauna session a smart move—or just extra stress?
Should You Use a Sauna with a Fever?
Short answer: No, it’s usually not a good idea.
Here’s why:
1. Saunas Raise Body Temperature Even More
A typical sauna—whether it’s a Dynamic Sauna infrared cabin or a Scandia traditional steam room—intentionally raises your core temperature.
When you already have a fever, adding more heat can:
- Overwork your heart
- Worsen dehydration
- Increase the risk of fainting or heatstroke
(Source: Mayo Clinic)
2. Dehydration Risk Skyrockets
You lose fluids when you sweat in a sauna.
You also lose fluids fighting a fever. Combine the two, and dehydration becomes a major concern, leading to:
- Dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Drop in blood pressure
3. Your Body Needs Energy to Heal, Not to Handle Heat Stress
Healing takes enormous energy.
Adding the physical stress of a sauna could slow your recovery rather than help it.
When It’s Sometimes Okay to Use a Sauna During Illness
If you’re recovering from a mild cold without fever—just congestion or muscle stiffness—gentle infrared sauna use can actually help with:
- Loosening mucus
- Relaxing sore muscles
- Boosting circulation
Always choose lower heat settings (100–120°F) and limit time to 10–15 minutes max.
And if you’re still not sure? Consult your doctor first.
Trusted retailers like InHouse Wellness and Infinite Sauna offer both traditional and infrared options ideal for recovery and general wellness—not active fever stages.
Best Types of Saunas for Recovery (When You’re Not Running a Fever)
Infrared Saunas
- Gentle heat penetrates muscles without overwhelming the body
- Best for post-illness recovery
- Easy to control temperature
Recommended Brands: Dynamic Saunas, Maxxus Saunas
Traditional Steam Saunas
- High humidity can relieve sinus congestion
- Better suited after full fever resolution
Recommended Brands: Scandia, Dundalk Leisurecraft, Ripavi
Explore both styles at InHouse Wellness and Infinite Sauna to build your home wellness arsenal.
Safe Practices for Sauna Use After Illness
Once your fever has fully resolved, a sauna can help you feel “back to normal” faster:
- Start slow: Short sessions at lower temperatures
- Hydrate aggressively: Water with electrolytes is ideal
- Listen to your body: End the session immediately if you feel weak or dizzy
- Rest afterward: Recovery isn’t a race
(Source: Cleveland Clinic)
When to Absolutely Avoid Sauna Use
Skip sauna entirely if you have:
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Severe respiratory symptoms
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Active infections or contagious illnesses (for others’ safety too!)
When your body says “no,” trust it.
Conclusion: Saunas Are Great—But Not During a Fever
Can you use a sauna with a fever?
In almost all cases, no.
Saunas offer amazing wellness benefits—but when you’re fighting a fever, your body needs rest, hydration, and gentle care—not extra heat stress.
Once you’re on the mend, though, a rejuvenating session in a Golden Designs sauna or a handcrafted Ripavi cabin could be just what you need to recover fully.
Check out premium wellness solutions at InHouse Wellness and Infinite Sauna.
Feel better, smarter, and stronger.
