Would you recommend the use of sauna for someone with CKD or Kidney transplant? Any good experience?

[Healthy_Lat]

I have been reading a lot about the benefits of infrared sauna in general about health(cardiovascular, inflammation, cognitive, hormonal). Some studies mention benefits to the kidney function (europepmc.org/article/MED/1.... Before buying one I would like to know if anyone had positive results and if you could share your experience.

Thanks!

[Celtic]

Many years ago. I was advised not to use saunas as ithey would be too dehydrating for someone with just a sole kidney. That was many years before my CKD3 diagnosis. Hopefully, someone will come along with more up-to-date advice in case things have changed.

[Alexannaz in reply to Celtic]

This is my personal experience and not a recommendation. I had been enjoying local traditional and infrared saunas for many years before I learned I had 3A CKD three years ago. I find them supremely relaxing and continue to go, generally once a week for an hour, and occasionally more than that. I try to stick to a strict kidney diet, exercise daily, and have lost some weight. My eGFR has remained steady and/or improved a few points over the past three years of testing. Of course, drinking plenty of water and being conscious of potential electrolyte lost is important because the level of sweating is so intense.

[Celtic in reply to Alexannaz]

I agree, especially with ensuring you replace the fluids lost. However, I will continue to err on the side of caution and forego saunas. Hopefully, Zontitote will also be cautious and seek the expert advice of a Dr.

[Healthy_Lat in reply to Celtic]

Thanks for your comments. I did ask the Dr. before but he did not have any comment against or in favor. I agree with the possibility of a dehydration.

[HealthBuddyMelissa]

I too have read that using saunas is not safe for people with Kidney issues. It is just too hot, and can cause issues with Blood Pressure, and cause dehydration. Same thing for hot tubs. But, after doing a search there are lots of so called health experts saying they are good because you sweat out toxins. I would ask your doctor. I know for me in the Summer months I have a very hard time staying hydrated enough due to sweating. I live in Florida and you only have to breathe to sweat. My eGFR also goes down in Summer presumably because I am not drinking enough, though I try very hard.

[Healthy_Lat in reply to HealthBuddyMelissa]

Yep. I am in Texas and getting used to the heat but the problem is that I don't sweat easily. I asked the Dr. but he did not have a strong opinion about saunas.

[HealthBuddyMelissa in reply to Healthy_Lat]

Well if he didn't tell you not to, then maybe a very short time would be fine. Texas heat has to be very similar to a sauna, lol. I never used to sweat either, just over heat. Now I sweat a lot and it is just gross.