Sore throat, stuffy head, runny nose, and body aches. Oh, no! It sounds like you’ve got a cold. Most of us come down with a cold a couple of times a year, and small children even more frequently that that. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the common cold, which typically lasts 7-10 days. If you have tried all the cough drops, cold medicines, and throat lozenges your pharmacy has to offer and are still feeling yucky, there is one more thing you can try. Got a cold? Ease symptoms with a sauna! Read on to find out how.
Ease Congestion
You can gain temporary relief from your stuffy head and clogged sinuses in a sauna. The warmth of the sauna can open up air passages and improve breathing. Mucus becomes loose and easier to get rid of.
Raise Body Temperature
The heat of the sauna can raise the body temperature somewhat, in effect, mimicking a fever. When a person’s body temperature is higher than normal, it is more difficult for viruses to survive. Fever activates the body’s immune system which wages war on those pathogens.
Ease Aches and Pains
The body aches and pains that come with a cold are actually the results of the inflammation caused when the immune system kicks in to fight the virus. Those pains mean the immune system is working, but it doesn’t make the discomfort any easier to bear. The heat of the sauna will help those sore muscles relax and may even reduce some of the inflammation.
Promote Relaxation
When you are ill with a cold, doctors recommend plenty of rest and relaxation. This may be hard to pull off if you are constantly coughing, sneezing, and suffering from body aches. If you make time for a 15-20 minute sauna session, however, you may find that your symptoms ease up enough for your body to relax for a time. The heat of the sauna increases blood flow and will get more oxygen to your brain. This increased oxygen relieves tension and helps you feel less drained. You may find that you are even able to sleep better after your session in the sauna.
Sauna Protocol
Clearly, if you are ill, you do not want to expose others by sharing the sauna with them. Go in solo, and limit your sauna time to 15-20 minutes. Of course, if you feel unwell at any time, you should get out and cool off. When you do emerge from your sauna session, it is important to hydrate yourself. Drink 2 to 4 glasses of cool water and cool down gradually. Contact your doctor if your symptoms last longer than 10 days.
There is no cure for the common cold. That being said, if you’ve got a cold, you can ease symptoms with a sauna. You can relieve congestion, activate your immune system, soothe body aches, and relax. It may not be a cure but should provide some temporary respite from your symptoms. The Pool People can help you find a sauna perfect for your lifestyle. We are your local dealer for Pro 6 and Almost Heaven Saunas. Call one of our stores to learn more.
