Feeling under the weather and thinking about hitting the sauna? Let’s take a smart look before you sweat it out.
What Happens to Your Body When You’re Sick
When you’re sick—whether it’s a mild cold, the flu, or a viral infection—your body goes into defense mode:
- Activates the immune system
- Raises body temperature (fever)
- Focuses energy on healing
Symptoms like fatigue, congestion, aches, and chills are all signs that your body is working overtime.
So, is the sauna good for you when sick?
The answer: Sometimes yes, sometimes no—depending on the situation.
When Sauna Use Might Help
In certain cases, gentle sauna use can actually support recovery:
1. Helps Relieve Nasal Congestion
Steam or infrared heat can open airways, loosen mucus, and help you breathe easier.
Steam rooms from Scandia or an infrared sauna like Dynamic Saunas are particularly effective.
2. Eases Muscle Aches
The heat improves circulation, helping reduce soreness and joint stiffness—common side effects of being sick.
3. Promotes Relaxation and Better Sleep
Feeling miserable often leads to poor sleep. A short sauna session boosts endorphins, lowers stress hormones, and may help you drift off more easily.
(Source: Cleveland Clinic)
When to Avoid the Sauna If You’re Sick
There are definitely times you should stay out of the sauna:
- If you have a fever: Adding heat on top of an elevated body temperature can be dangerous.
- If you’re dehydrated: Saunas cause more fluid loss, risking serious dehydration.
- If you feel very weak or dizzy: Heat stress could make these symptoms worse.
- If you have contagious illnesses: Protect others by avoiding shared saunas when you’re infectious.
(Source: Mayo Clinic)
👉 Bottom line: Listen to your body. When you feel strong enough and don’t have a fever, moderate sauna use could help.
Otherwise, prioritize hydration, rest, and nutrients first.
How to Use a Sauna Safely When Sick
If you decide a sauna session could help, follow these guidelines:
Sick-Friendly Sauna Routine:
- Keep it short: 10–15 minutes max.
- Use moderate heat: Especially if using an infrared sauna like those from Golden Designs or Maxxus Saunas.
- Hydrate aggressively before and after.
- Rest afterward: Allow your body time to recover.
- Exit immediately if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable.
Premium sauna models designed for health-focused users are available at InHouse Wellness and Infinite Sauna.
Best Types of Saunas for Gentle Recovery
Not all saunas are ideal when you’re feeling low. Here’s what to choose:
Infrared Saunas
- Lower operating temperatures (100°F–140°F)
- Deeper tissue penetration
- Less cardiovascular strain
Best Picks: Dynamic Saunas, Maxxus Saunas
Steam Saunas
- Moist heat ideal for respiratory relief
- Great for sinus congestion
Best Picks: Scandia, Dundalk Leisurecraft
For an outdoor option that’s as beautiful as it is therapeutic, Ripavi offers exceptional handcrafted sauna cabins.
Can Saunas Prevent Getting Sick?
Regular sauna users often report fewer colds and respiratory infections.
Studies suggest that sauna use boosts immune system function by:
- Enhancing white blood cell production
- Reducing stress (which weakens immunity)
However, using a sauna when you’re already sick requires caution—it’s a supportive tool, not a cure.
Conclusion: Know When to Sweat and When to Rest
Is the sauna good for you when sick?
Sometimes—if used carefully.
If you have mild symptoms without fever, a sauna can help ease discomfort and promote relaxation.
If you’re running a high fever or feeling very weak, skip the heat and focus on rest.
Whenever you’re ready to invest in your wellness journey, explore top-tier saunas from InHouse Wellness and Infinite Sauna.
Take care of your body—and it will take care of you.
