FAR Infrared Sauna – Contraindications for use

The use of infrared saunas may have many health benefits, however, it is important that you fully understand how to use the sauna and gradually introduce your body to the therapy to produce the best results. In all situations hydration is a requirement for sauna use. Drinking water is recommended before and after sauna use.

Far infrared saunas DO NOT cure any diseases. DO NOT attempt to self-treat any disease with a far infrared sauna without direct supervision from a certified physician. If any of the items listed below apply to you, be certain to consult with your physician before using a far infrared sauna.

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Acute Fever

Clients with an acute fever should not use an Infrared Sauna until the fever has subsided.

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Chronic Conditions / diseases associated with impaired sweating

Multiple Sclerosis, Central Nervous System Tumours, Diabetes with Neuropathy & Parkinson’s Disease are all conditions that are associated with impaired sweating.

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Pacemaker and/or Defibrillator

The magnets used to assemble Infrared Saunas can interrupt the pacing and inhibit the output of pacemakers, thus using our infrared saunas is not recommended. Please discuss with your doctor the possible risks this may cause.

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Implants

Metal pins, rods, artificial joints or any other surgical implants generally reflect Far Infrared waves and thus are not heated by this system. Silicone does absorb Far infrared energy. Implanted silicone or silicone prostheses for nose or ear replacement may be warmed by the Far Infrared waves. It is still advised that you check with your physician to confirm that using our saunas won’t affect your implants.

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Cardiovascular Conditions

Individuals with cardiovascular conditions or problems (hypertension / hypo tension), congestive heart failure, impaired coronary circulation or those who are taking medications, which might affect blood pressure, should exercise extreme caution when exposed to prolonged heat. Heat stress increases cardiac output, blood flow, in an effort to transfer internal body heat to the outside environment via the skin (perspiration) and respiratory system. This is primarily due to major changes in the heart rate, which has the potential to increase by 30 beats per minute for each elevated degree in core body temperature.

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Joint Injury

If you have a recent (acute) joint injury, refrain from any heat treatment for the first 48-72 hours after the initial injury, or until the hot and swollen symptoms subside. If you have a joint or joints that are chronically hot and swollen, these joints may respond poorly to vigorous heating of any kind. Vigorous heating is strictly contra-indicated in cases of enclosed infections such as dental, in joints or in any other tissues.

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Pregnancy

Infrared Saunas are NOT recommended for use during pregnancy.

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Insensitivity to heat

Individuals who have insensitivity to heat should not use the Infrared Sauna.

FAR Infrared sauna – cautions with use

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Children

The core body temperature of children rises much faster than adults. This occurs due to a higher metabolic rate per body mass, limited circulatory adaptation to increased cardiac demands and the inability to regulate body temperature by sweating. Consult with the child’s Paediatrician before using the sauna.

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The Elderly

The ability to maintain core body temperature decreases with age. This is primarily due to circulatory conditions and decreased sweat gland function. The body must be able to activate its natural cooling processes in order to maintain core body temperature.

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High / low blood pressure

Infrared sauna does not normally raise blood pressure. Although the heart rate is increased during use, vasodilation of all blood vessels and increased circulation actually allows for a lowering of blood pressure in many users. If in doubt consult with your GP before using an infrared sauna.

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Medications

Individuals who are using prescription drugs should seek the advice of their personal physician or a pharmacist for possible changes in the drugs effect when the body is exposed to Far infrared waves or elevated body temperature. Diuretics, barbiturates and beta-blockers may impair the body’s natural heat loss mechanisms. Some over the counter drugs such as antihistamines may also cause the body to be more prone to heat stroke.

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Alcohol / Alcohol Abuse

Contrary to popular belief, it is not advisable to attempt to “Sweat Out” a hangover. Alcohol intoxication decreases a person’s judgment; therefore they may not realize it when the body has a negative reaction to high heat. Alcohol also increases the heart rate, which may be further increased by heat stress.

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Haemophiliacs and/or Individuals Prone to Bleeding

The use of Infrared Saunas should be avoided by anyone who is predisposed to bleeding.