Can you take a sauna with atrial fibrillation?

Taking a sauna with atrial fibrillation is a topic that requires caution. Whether it is safe to use a sauna depends on the severity of your condition, your general health, and whether your symptoms are well controlled.

The high temperatures in a sauna can significantly increase your heart rate. For people with atrial fibrillation, this can worsen symptoms or trigger a new episode of fibrillation. Saunas can also cause blood pressure to fluctuate. Although blood pressure usually drops in the sauna, it can suddenly rise when you cool down or stand up, which can be risky for people with heart rhythm problems.

If your atrial fibrillation is well controlled with medication and you do not have frequent or severe symptoms, then using a sauna under controlled conditions may be possible. Some medications for atrial fibrillation, such as beta blockers, can affect the way your body responds to heat. This can affect how you feel in a sauna.

Before you decide to use a sauna, it is important to discuss it with your cardiologist or GP. They can assess your specific situation and advise you on whether it is safe for you. If your doctor approves, start with short, gentle sauna sessions and avoid extreme temperatures.

Make sure you stay hydrated and avoid sudden changes in temperature. After the sauna, it is important to cool down gradually to avoid extreme changes in blood pressure.

Source: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2130724

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-08-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024