Sauna

Can the sauna be dangerous for your heart?

Sometimes I feel something in my heart after being in the sauna for a long time or running although it's not really pain I just feel something I usually don't for a short second. Should I see a doctor or is it OK?

Public Comments

1. yes
2. If you have had heart problems in the past then see your doctor. Normal exertion will speed the heart rate for a short time. If this lasts more then a few minutes then see a heart specialist. The heart is nothing to mess with. I know from a previous heart attack.
3. yes. see a doctor. the heat of a sauna or spa causes your blood to thin and staying in to long can be dangerous
4. If you are otherwise healthy,sauna (90 Celsius) or running cause the loss of 1. water by perspiration 2.Electrolytes like sodium and potassium. In sensitive individuals, the loss of potassium ,specially, may give rise to irregular heart beat e.g.Extrasystole and this gives the feeling that the heart has skipped a beat. In cases where this occurs too frequently one may feel run down or dizzy. The correction is to rehydrate quickly and a fresh orange juice. This usually does the trick. If it persists, you should consult your doctor to exclude any other causes. P.S. It is commoner inindividuals who perspire more than average.