Prev Next

Effect of saunas

The healthy effect of saunas in caused by an increase of the body’s temperature. This is comparable to an artificial fever.

Immediately after stepping into a sauna, the body’s temperature rises by a whole degree, the pulse increases and blood vessels dilate. Most of all, the body starts to produce sweat. During a stay in a sauna, the blood pressure does not change a lot. However, it rises drastically when stepping into a cool-down pool. In the long-term, blood pressure will decrease and rheumatic pains will lessen. Overall constitution is strengthened and the airways open up. Last, but not least, the mood will lighten.

One of the most visible effects of regular stays in a sauna is the degree to which one is affected by the flu and similar sicknesses. Many factors contribute to this: increased blood flow to the skin and mucous membrane, a lower level of stress, strengthening of unspecified immunological defence mechanisms to fend off free radicals. However, it should be noted, that these effects can only last in the long-term when saunas are used at least once a week over the course of a full year. Also, these effects are gone in no less than three months. If one is currently sick or has another condition which impedes health, a stay in a sauna can even have negative effects on the immune system.

The positive effects on several diseases is well documented and scientifically proven. Regular use of a sauna cures or at least lessens conditions like chronic bronchitis, asthma bronchiale, arthrosis, rheumatism, disorders of the circulation and the heart, menopausal ailments and mild depression. However, there are several conditions with which one should avoid the use of saunas: acute infections, fever, large haematomas, acute cardiac discomfort, lymphedema, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.