I am considering purchasing an infrared sauna. Acquaintances of mine are not allowed to go to the sauna because of their high blood pressure. The brochure of the sauna sellers states that the use of an infrared sauna is good for high blood pressure. What should I think of this? My blood pressure is now normal, thanks to medication.
woman, 67 years
Joris Bartstra, journalist with a medical diploma
I can’t think of a reason why the sauna would be bad for blood pressure or increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The reverse – that it is beneficial for blood pressure – I can imagine a little better. Heating the skin stimulates vasodilation and thus a decrease in blood pressure. But there is little evidence for either claim. It certainly doesn’t seem dangerous to me.
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