It is generally not recommended to use a sauna when you have a fever. The high temperature of a sauna can put strain on the body, leading to dehydration or a further rise in body temperature, which is detrimental to recovery.
A fever is the body's defensive response against infection, and during this time, the body's thermoregulatory system is in a sensitive state. The temperature inside a sauna can reach 60-80°C. High temperatures accelerate blood circulation and metabolic rate, potentially exacerbating existing inflammatory responses. Excessive sweating can lead to electrolyte imbalances, especially when accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea. Fever caused by some viral infections can also increase myocardial stress due to the high temperature.
In rare cases, people with a low-grade fever and no underlying medical conditions may experience comfort after a brief sauna session. This is because saunas dilate pores and temporarily relieve muscle soreness. However, these sessions should be strictly limited to 10 minutes or less, and fluids containing electrolytes should be replenished promptly. Saunas should absolutely be avoided if the body temperature exceeds 38°C or if there are underlying medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease.
During a fever, it is recommended to use physical cooling methods such as warm water sponges and maintain a daily fluid intake of 2,000-3,000 ml. If the body temperature persists above 39°C or is accompanied by symptoms such as confusion or convulsions, seek medical attention immediately. Wait at least 48 hours after the fever subsides before using a sauna, and the initial session should not exceed 5 minutes.