Saunas Mar 04, 2023

Headache from sauna: what to know

Tyler Fish

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 can cause you to sweat profusely, which can lead to dehydration if you do not drink enough water before and after using the sauna. Dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms.
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.
Blood pressure changes: Sauna can cause blood vessels to dilate and blood pressure to drop, which can lead 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.

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.

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, which can cause headaches.
Time limit: Limit your time in the sauna to no more than 15-20 minutes to prevent overheating and heat exhaustion.
Cool down: After using the sauna, take a cool shower or dip in a cold pool to help cool your body down and prevent headaches.
Medication: If you experience a headache after using the sauna, you may take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any new medication, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.

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.

Is Sauna Good for Headache?

While sauna is not a recommended treatment for headaches, it can provide relaxation and promote overall health and well-being. If you enjoy using the sauna and do not experience headaches from using it, there is no reason to avoid it. However, if you experience headaches from sauna, it is important to take steps to prevent or manage them.

Does Sauna Help

Headaches?

As mentioned earlier, sauna is not recommended as a treatment for headaches. However, sauna can provide relaxation and improve circulation, which may indirectly help prevent headaches caused by tension or stress. Additionally, sauna may help prevent headaches caused by muscle tension or inflammation, as heat therapy can promote muscle relaxation and reduce inflammation.

Sauna and Migraines

Sauna can be a trigger for migraines in some people, as it can cause changes in blood pressure, body temperature, and circulation. However, some people with migraines may find that sauna can help reduce the frequency or intensity of their migraines, as heat therapy can promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension.

If you have migraines and are considering using sauna as a therapy, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if sauna is safe for you and provide guidance on how to use sauna safely.

Preventing Headaches from Sauna

To prevent headaches from sauna, it is important to take steps to stay hydrated and cool. Some tips include:

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 using the sauna, as they can dehydrate you.
Use a cool towel or take a cool shower after using the sauna to help cool down your body.
Avoid using chemicals or scents in the sauna that may trigger headaches or other symptoms.
Talk to your doctor before using sauna if you have any underlying medical conditions or take any medications.