Sauna

Before using a sauna, consult a physician if you have any of the following:

High blood pressure or heart problems. Saunas make your heart work harder than normal.
Known medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, abnormal heart rhythm, or angina.
Just finished exercising. Let your heart rate return to resting levels first after strenuous activity.
Recently consumed alcohol or recreational drugs. Using the sauna afterwards could affect your heart, impair sweating, and produce overheating.
Take certain medications that interfere with your body's ability to regulate temperature or make you drowsy.
Are pregnant. Sauna use during pregnancy could lead to dizziness, dehydration, or lower blood pressure.

Keep sessions short. Limit sessions to 15 to 20 minutes. You can build up your tolerance for the heat over multiple visits.
Monitor how you feel. If you are sensitive to the heat, feel dizzy, nauseous, or begin to feel uncomfortable, leave the sauna immediately.
Don't use when ill. Avoid the sauna if you are ill, and head for the door if you feel unwell during your session.
Stay hydrated. Hydrate beforehand, and drink two to four glasses of cool water after each session. Drink mineral water or juice to replace electrolytes lost through sweating.
Use the buddy system. Bring a friend or family member with you in case problems occur.
Remove jewelry. Metal jewelry, including rings and small earrings, can heat up quickly and cause skin irritation or burning.
Protect your hair. Sauna heat can leave hair shafts dry and brittle. A towel or shower cap can help protect it.
Dress appropriately. Wear loose-fitting clothes, a swimsuit, or a towel, since heavy clothing can lead to overheating.
Avoid alcohol and certain medications. Don't use alcohol or medications that may impair sweating and produce overheating before and after your sauna.
Rest and cool off afterwards. Lie or sit down for at least 10 minutes, then take a cold shower to help bring your body temperature to normal levels.

Sauna use can be very good for your body and relaxing when used safely.