🚫 ABSOLUTE CONTRAINDICATIONS
Do NOT use the Sauna or Steam Room if:
- You are Pregnant: Extreme heat can cause fetal damage. You must consult your OB/GYN before exposure to infrared or steam heat.
- Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs: Alcohol increases heart rate and decreases blood pressure, which can lead to rapid fainting in a sauna. It also impairs your judgment regarding heat tolerance.
- Fever / Acute Illness: If you have a fever, your body is already overheated. Adding external heat can lead to heatstroke.
- Hemophilia / Prone to Bleeding: Infrared heat dilates blood vessels and may increase the risk of bleeding in hemophiliacs.
- Insensitivity to Heat: If you have conditions (such as advanced diabetes or neuropathy) that suppress your ability to feel heat or pain, do not use these facilities, as you may burn without realizing it.
⚠️ MEDICAL IMPLANTS & DEVICES
Specific cautions for Infrared Therapy:
- Pacemakers / Defibrillators: Some infrared magnets or heat levels may interfere with older devices. Check with your manufacturer.
- Metal Pins, Rods, or Artificial Joints: Metal reflects infrared waves and may become hot, causing discomfort or burn in the surrounding tissue. If you feel pain near an implant, exit immediately.
- Silicone Implants: Silicone absorbs infrared energy and may warm up. While generally considered safe, monitor for discomfort.
- Transdermal Patches: Remove medication patches (nicotine, pain relief, hormones) before entering, as heat can induce a rapid, overdose-level absorption of the drug.
⚕️ CONDITIONS REQUIRING CAUTION
Consult a doctor before use if you have:
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), or congestive heart failure. The heat increases cardiac output similarly to vigorous exercise.
- Chronic Conditions: Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Central Nervous System Tumors, or Lupus (heat can trigger flare-ups).
- Recent Injury: Do not heat a "fresh" injury (swollen/acute phase) within the first 48 hours. Heat increases inflammation; cold is required for the first 48 hours.
- Medications: specifically Diuretics, Barbiturates, Beta-blockers, or Antihistamines, which may impair the body's natural heat-regulating mechanisms.