Is it ok to use a sauna or steam room after having a heart attack ?
I am 54 and had a heart attack 3 years ago and was also diagnosed with diabetes last year. I currently do moderate aerobic exercise at least twice a week for about 40 minutes a time. During milder weather this will often mean cycling to and from work around 4 days in a week, each journey is 8 miles in about 40 minutes (would be quicker if there weren't as many traffic lights) so this amounts to 64 miles in a week.
I don't think you can use them or hot tubs etc if you have a heart condition. I have seen health warning signs on them but maybe ask your Dr or cardiologist
Should be ok but take it slowly at the beginning.
I use a sauna or steam room twice a week after gym workout (6 years since my HA).
The main effect of a steam or sauna is to drop your BP, if it is low already it could be a problem, same as a hot bath.
Like everything new, take it one step at a time. First time keep it short and slowly increase time until you're comfortable. I always sit down for a few minutes to cool off before hitting the shower otherwise you could get a bit dizzy if your BP gets too low, but the therapeutic benefits for me at least are well worth it!
My cardiologist said it was fine, but then it may depend on your heart condition & whether or not you have any damage.
I remember my rehab nurses warning against all sorts, walking in cold weather etc. My cardiologist couldn’t believe it. Said live life as normal as I can just don’t chase times and now high intensity bursts. So I now go in sauna / steam rooms, go body boarding I cold sea etc. He even said I could join the family rafting in Alps which they do every summer in very cold water.
I even cycled to work on Friday in minus 3!
I think the important thing is understanding the nature of your condition and know how your body feels and stop doing activity if you have any concerns.
Imagine if in 10 years or so you didn’t do the things you enjoyed all that time. If I’m dkubt ask to cardiologist for advice as they have your medical records.
Our Cardiologist has told us heat is not our friend. A sauna or steam room will increase your heartrate and creates not only additional work for your heart but also your aorta veins. Same situation on hot tubs, hot baths and exercising (walking, jogging, biking) in extremely hot outdoor temperatures. I still enjoy a hot shower but know my limits and have grab bars in the shower.
CHD means a total change of lifestyle for all of us.
I asked my consultant cardiologist this question after my triple CABG. He was somewhat surprised by the question but very clear in his answer - yes, just make sure you have plenty of water and if you feel remotely feint, get out.
I have not had a heart attack but have had a heart condition all my life ( 57 years) and have always been told I am not to go into steam rooms or saunas. Check with your heart consultant or cardiac nurse to check.
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