Key Takeaways
· Headaches from sauna use can result from dehydration, heat exhaustion, blood pressure changes, migraines, or sensitivity to chemicals used in sauna cleaning.
· Preventing headaches is best achieved by hydrating thoroughly before and after sessions, limiting sauna time to 15–20 minutes, and gradually cooling down after use.
· While saunas can promote relaxation, improved circulation, and detoxification, they are not recommended treatments for headaches or migraines—some users may even experience worsening symptoms.
· Sauna-induced headaches are often temporary; most resolve with rest, fluids, and appropriate cool-down measures.
· People with low blood pressure, migraine tendencies, or certain health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before sauna use to ensure safe enjoyment of infrared sauna health benefits.
Sauna is a popular form of heat therapy that has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and detoxify the body. While many people enjoy the benefits of sauna, some may experience headaches after using the sauna.
In this article, we will explore the possible causes of headaches from sauna, whether sauna can help relieve headaches, and what you can do to prevent or manage headaches from sauna.
Possible Causes of Headaches from Sauna
There are several possible causes of headaches from sauna, including:
Dehydration: Sauna use can cause you to sweat profusely, which can lead to dehydration if you do not drink enough water before and after. Dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms. Always bring along sauna accessories like a large water bottle for hydration, and a soft towel to help manage sweat.
Learn more about hydration during sauna use:
Saunas and Hydration: How to stay safe and prevent dehydration during heat therapy
Heat exhaustion: Spending too much time in a sauna or exposing yourself to high temperatures can cause heat exhaustion, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms. For home users, a full-spectrum infrared sauna for sale with programmable timers can help you avoid overheating and ensure you don’t exceed the recommended session length.
Blood pressure changes: Sauna can cause blood vessels to dilate and blood pressure to drop, leading to headaches, especially in people who already have low blood pressure.
Migraines: Some people may experience migraines triggered by heat, and sauna can be a trigger for them.
Chemical exposure: Some saunas may use chemicals to clean or enhance the sauna experience, which can cause headaches or other symptoms in people who are sensitive to these chemicals.
Will a Sauna Help a Headache?
While sauna can provide relaxation and improve circulation, it is unlikely to relieve a headache. In fact, sauna may make a headache worse in some people, especially if the headache is caused by dehydration, heat exhaustion, or blood pressure changes. If you have a headache, it is best to rest, drink plenty of water, and take any medication recommended by your doctor.
Learn more about: Saunas for Pain Relief: Alleviating muscle tension, joint pain, and headaches
Bad Headache after Sauna
If you experience a bad headache after using the sauna, it is important to take steps to address the cause of the headache. Some possible strategies include:
Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and after using the sauna to prevent dehydration.
Time limit: Limit your time in the sauna to no more than 15-20 minutes, especially in a luxury home sauna where you may feel tempted to linger longer.
Cool down: After using the sauna, take a cool shower or dip in a cold pool to help cool your body and prevent headaches.
Medication: For persistent headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers can be used, but consult your doctor if you experience frequent episodes.
Can the Sauna Cause Headaches?
Yes, sauna can cause headaches in some people, especially if they are dehydrated, overheated, or have low blood pressure. Sauna may also trigger migraines in some people. It is important to listen to your body and take steps to prevent or manage headaches from sauna.
Does Sauna Help Migraines?
Sauna is not a recommended treatment for migraines, as it can be a trigger for some people. In fact, some people with migraines may find that heat makes their headaches worse. If you have migraines, it is important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and other therapies as needed.
If you’re building a wellness space at home, professional home sauna installation ensures your device is set up for comfort and safety, reducing your risk of adverse effects and supporting a healthy routine.
Preventing Headaches from Sauna
· To prevent headaches from sauna, take steps to stay hydrated and cool:
· Drink plenty of water before and after using the sauna.
· Limit your time in the sauna to no more than 15-20 minutes.
· Take breaks to cool down and hydrate during sauna sessions.
· Avoid alcohol and caffeine before or after sauna, as these can dehydrate you.
· Use a cool towel, or take a cool shower after using the sauna to help bring your body temperature down.
· Avoid using chemicals or strong scents in the sauna that may trigger headaches.
Talk to your doctor before using sauna if you have any underlying medical conditions or are on medication.
Learn more about infrared sauna health benefits: Top 8 benefits of an infrared sauna
Sun Home Saunas sells the world's leading at-home saunas, including infrared saunas, traditional saunas, and infrared sauna blankets.
Reach out today and find out more from our sauna experts!
FAQs
Why do saunas sometimes trigger headaches?
Dehydration, overheating, drops in blood pressure, or chemical sensitivities can all trigger headaches after sauna use. Not hydrating or exceeding safe time limits increases this risk.
Can using an infrared sauna help relieve an existing headache?
Saunas offer deep relaxation and relief for muscle tension, but are not proven remedies for headaches—in fact, heat and dehydration may worsen some head pain or migraines.
How can I prevent headache symptoms after a sauna session?
Drink lots of water, keep your sessions brief, take breaks to cool down, and avoid alcohol or caffeine before your sauna. Using a cool towel post-sauna can also help.
Are certain users at higher risk for sauna-related headaches?
Yes. People prone to migraines, those with low blood pressure, or users who neglect hydration and time limits should take extra precautions to avoid headaches.
When is it best to avoid the sauna if I get headaches?
If you’re unwell, already dehydrated, or have a history of heat-triggered migraines or low blood pressure, skip sauna sessions until cleared by a physician for safety.
