There is some research supporting certain health benefits of saunas, including improved lung function.
Types of Saunas
Sauna bathing is known as whole-bodythermotherapyor heat therapy.
It is used in different forms in different parts of the world.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
What Is Thermotherapy?
Thermotherapy, or “heat therapy,” uses heat to treat symptoms.
Throughout time, saunas have been used for hygiene, health, social, and spiritual purposes.
There are a couple of different types of saunas.
Modern-Day Sauna
The modern-day sauna follows the traditional Finnish-style sauna.
These saunas have dry air with humidity ranging from 10% to 20%.
There are increased periods of humidity, where the temperature ranges between 176 and a maximum of 212 degrees.
Other styles include the Turkish-style Hammam and Russian Banya.
Infrared Sauna
Theinfrared saunais a dry heat sauna.
It has a temperature range between 113 and 140 degrees.
Different types of saunas can be distinguished by their level of humidity, heating source, and construction style.
Another study found that sauna exposure created breathing improvements in patients withasthmaorchronic bronchitis.
Other studies showed that frequent sauna use was associated with a reduced risk ofpneumonia.
In one study, people who had been diagnosed with allergic rhinitis were randomly assigned to two groups.
One group received education about their condition but otherwise lived as they normally would.
Another received 30 minutes of sauna treatment three days a week for six weeks.
Both groups were tested at the beginning and again at three weeks and six weeks.
Studies have also looked at the potential for sauna use to reduce the spread ofCOVID-19.
COPD
Some studies have found that saunas may help lung capacity and airway obstruction in people withCOPD.
In one study, researchers evaluated whether repeated heat therapy helped people with COPD.
Participants did this five days a week for a total of 20 times.
Participants were also given conventional therapy, including medications.
To fairly compare the effects of the heat therapy, another group of participants only received conventional therapy.
However, no significant changes were seen in the distance walked at six minutes or symptoms reported.
Using a sauna four or more times a week was associated with an even lower risk.
Recap
There is limited evidence that saunas are therapeutic for lung conditions.
Further research is needed.
As far as more specific medical benefits, some studies have found that sauna use has heart-health benefits.
Risks
Overall, saunas are safe for most people.
But if you have certain health conditions, you should avoid using saunas.
Concerns about sauna use include:
Does Sauna Use Kill Sperm?
Frequent sauna use may affect spermatogenesis, which is the origin and development of sperm cells.
Therefore, people with testicles who are actively pursuing parenthood may want to refrain from regular sauna use.
Summary
Saunas are often used to reduce stress, relax, and detoxify the body.
Some evidence suggests that they may offer some other health benefits as well.
Limited research suggests that saunas may provide support for people with acute and chronic lung conditions.
However, more studies are necessary to confirm the findings.
Even though saunas provide therapeutic benefits, they also carry certain risks like dehydration and changes in blood pressure.
Although it has overall health benefits, dont use a sauna as an alternative to any standard medical treatment.
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