Sauna Contraindications

IMPORTANT INFORMATION BEFORE YOUR BOOKING

Please review the contraindications listed below before using the Sunlighten Sauna.

If in doubt, do not use the sauna.

Medications

Individuals who are using Warfarin or other blood thinning drugs should not use the sauna. 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 infrared energy. 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.

Cardiovascular Conditions

Individuals with cardiovascular conditions or problems (hypertension/ hypotension), 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 takes place primarily due to major changes in the heart rate, which has the potential to increase by thirty (30) beats per minute for each degree increase in core body temperature.

Joint Injury

If you have a recent joint injury, it should not be heated for the first 48 hours 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.

Fever

An individual that has a fever should not use the any type of Sauna.

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 realise 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.

Chronic Conditions / Diseases Associated with a Reduced ability to Sweat or Perspire

Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Central Nervous System Tumors and Diabetes with Neuropathy are conditions that are associated with impaired sweating. Consult your health care practitioner before using a Sunlighten Sauna.

Haemophiliacs / Individuals Prone to Bleeding

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

Pregnancy

Pregnant women should consult a physician before using the Sauna.

Implants

Metal pins, rods, artificial joints or other surgical implants generally reflect Far infrared waves and thus are not heated by this system. The usage of the Sauna must be discontinued if you experience pain near any such implants. Silicone does absorb infrared energy. Implanted silicone or silicone prostheses for nose or ear replacement may be warmed by the infrared waves. Since silicone melts at over 392°F (200°C), it should not be adversely affected by the usage of a Sauna. It is still advised that you check with your surgeon to be certain.

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. The ability to regulate body temperature by sweating is said to occur only after a child has reached puberty.

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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