Getting sick sucks. Even something as moderate as the common cold can take the wind out of your sails and put your life on pause, preventing you from working, exercising, or even enjoying simple pleasures like seeing your friends or enjoying a delicious meal.

It’s especially brutal when you have something important coming up, like a vacation or some other event. You want to get back to full form fast and you’re willing to try anything, even using the sauna for a cold. 

But is sauna good for a cold at all, or is this just another remedy that doesn’t actually have any impact on your recovery rate? Why do saunas help with colds? 

Using a sauna when you have a cold can promote circulation, relieve congestion, and relax sore muscles, providing much-needed relief from the cold symptoms. 

It can open your nasal passages and ease your breathing - but the sauna also supports better sleep, helping beef up your body’s defense so you can recover ASAP.

That being said, it’s worth noting that saunas are actually more powerful for preventing illness than curing it, which is why it’s a great investment in your home and health. 

Learn more below, including why Nordica Sauna is your trusted choice for home saunas online. Browse the best sauna brand selection today and elevate your wellness regimen!

Is Sauna Good for a Cold?

Let’s not waste any time - is sauna good for a cold?Absolutely, and in more ways than one. These have been a tried-and-true remedy for a variety of illnesses for centuries, from the common cold to the flu.

But let’s get more specific - how does sauna help with cold? We’ll walk you through all the benefits of using the sauna when you have a cold along with a few instances where this could actually do more harm than good.

Why Do Saunas Help With Colds?

Many of the sauna benefits can be traced back to how they enhance blood circulation. This is the primary mechanism by which saunas help colds.

The sauna temperature increases your core body temperature, mimicking a mild fever. This artificial “fever” triggers the body’s natural immune response, encouraging white blood cell production to help fight off infections. 

In this sense, saunas help you jumpstart the healing process - but they also help ease the uncomfortable symptoms of a cold as well.

The heat, and in some cases steam, help thin mucus, opening nasal passages and allowing for easier breathing. This effect is similar to using a humidifier but on a more intense level. 

The increased circulation from sauna use can also relieve muscle aches and joint pain, which are common during a cold. 

But there is another reason saunas are so great when you’re under the weather - they help you sleep better. It can be challenging to fall asleep when you’re sick, but quality sleep is more important than ever when you’re on the mend.

This creates a vicious cycle where you can’t sleep, so you don’t get better, and in turn, your sleep cycle gets even worse and worse. You can incorporate sauna therapy into your bedtime routine to help ease your body and mind for deep, restful sleep, speeding up your recovery.

Saunas Can Help Prevent Colds, Too!

Now, why is sauna good for a cold prevention defense? Simple - they boost your body’s immune system. Studies have found that regular use of a sauna makes an individual less likely to catch colds and respiratory infections compared to those who do not use saunas.

Part of this goes back to raising your body’s core temperature and stimulating the healing response. However, some of this can be attributed to detoxification as well.

Sweating during sauna sessions helps the body remove toxins and impurities through the skin. This supports the lymphatic system, helping the body rid itself of harmful substances that could weaken the immune system.

So even if you aren’t sick right now, it’s worth making time for regular sauna sessions to keep living your life to the fullest!

Is There Ever a Situation Where a Sauna Might Do More Harm Than Good?

It’s clear that there are benefits to using the sauna when you have a cold, but is there any downside or risks you should be aware of? Are there scenarios where a sauna might do more harm than good?

Yes - using a sauna when you already have a fever might make matters worse. A fever indicates your body is already working to raise its temperature to fight off infection, and additional heat from a sauna may lead to dehydration and exhaustion. 

Similarly, people with chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, should also be cautious. The dry heat of some saunas can irritate sensitive airways, making breathing more difficult. A steam sauna can alleviate this concern.

In some cases, excessive exposure to sauna heat can cause dizziness, fatigue, or even fainting, especially if you’re already weak from an illness. This is why it’s important to listen to your body. If you feel lightheaded or uncomfortable, it’s best to leave the sauna and rest.

However, many have found that using the sauna for a cold makes a dramatic difference in how quickly they get over it and how comfortable they are while dealing with the illness. You just need to know the best practices for using a sauna when you have a cold.

Tips on Using the Sauna When You Have a Cold

From figuring out how often should you use a sauna to understanding optimal sauna duration, rehydration strategies, and more, here are some of our top tips on using the sauna for a cold.

What Type of Sauna is Best for a Cold?

Whether you’re considering bringing the benefits of a sauna into your home or you’re weighing your options at local spas, understanding the different types of sauna is an important first step.

Both infrared and steam saunas can be beneficial for different aspects of cold relief, but steam saunas tend to be the best option for addressing respiratory symptoms. 

The moisture helps open airways, ease congestion, and soothe irritated sinuses. That being said, an infrared sauna might be better for muscle aches or general relaxation due to its deep heat penetration.

Both types support immune function by raising body temperature, which can help simulate a fever to aid your body’s defense against illness. Either way, you’re making an excellent investment in your wellness routine.

You can learn more in our blog as we have comparison guides for infrared sauna vs traditional, infrared sauna vs dry sauna, infrared vs steam sauna, barrel sauna vs square sauna, indoor vs outdoor sauna, and many more. Our sauna buying guide can help you pick the perfect style.

Duration and Frequency of Sauna Sessions

Less is often more when it comes to using a sauna for a cold. Sessions should be kept to a shorter duration, typically 10-15 minutes, to avoid overheating or causing additional strain on your body. One session per day is generally enough when you're sick

Be sure to start with a lower temperature and gradually increase the intensity as your body adjusts. Always listen to your body if you're feeling weak or fatigued. It's better to shorten the session and make sure you're staying hydrated throughout.

Pre and Post-Sauna Care

What you do before and after the sauna session impacts your recovery and relief as well. 

Your body will lose fluids through sweating, and dehydration can worsen cold symptoms, especially nasal and throat irritation. This is why you need to drink plenty of water both before and after the sauna session to stay hydrated. Better yet, drink electrolytes. 

Try to cool down gradually after the sauna session rather than diving into a cold plunge or shower. A sudden change in temperature can shock your system. So, wrap up in a warm towel or robe and let your body return to its normal temperature gradually.

Other Ways to Get Over a Cold Fast

We know you came here to learn about using a sauna when you have a cold, but this is just one of the many strategies for bolstering your body’s natural defense against illness and easing symptoms. Here are some more:

• Stay Hydrated: Water, herbal teas, and clear broths keep your throat hydrated and help thin mucus for easier removal. Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
• Rest: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus causing the cold, so prioritize rest and aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. This will speed up healing as your body produces more white blood cells to combat the virus.
• Eat Immune-Boosting Foods: Citrus fruits are high in Vitamin C which may help reduce the duration and severity of a cold. Garlic has antiviral properties, and foods rich in zinc (like nuts and seeds) can also support immune function.
• Use a Humidifier: These add moisture to the air, which can ease nasal congestion and soothe a dry throat. Breathing in humid air helps thin mucus and prevents irritation in the respiratory tract.
• Over-the-Counter Remedies: Decongestants clear up nasal passages, while antihistamines can help reduce sneezing and a runny nose. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen reduce body aches, headaches, and fever.
• Gargle with Salt Water: This can reduce inflammation and relieve sore throat discomfort. The salt draws out fluids from inflamed tissues to reduce swelling while the warm water can soothe irritated mucous membranes.
• Use a Saline Nasal Spray: These help flush out mucus and keep your nasal passages clear, making it easier to breathe. They’re non-medicated, so they’re safe to use multiple times a day to relieve congestion.
• Take Zinc Supplements: As we said earlier, zinc is known to help reduce the duration of cold symptoms when taken at the onset of illness. Research has shown it can interfere with the replication of rhinoviruses, which cause colds, potentially shortening illness duration.
• Practice Good Hygiene: This prevents further spreading of the virus or contracting secondary infections. So, wash your hands regularly with soap and water and disinfect commonly touched surfaces like door handles, phones, and countertops to minimize exposure to germs.

Ultimately, though, there is only so much you can do to speed up the healing process and get back on your feet. Be patient and give yourself the necessary time to recover. Rushing back into your regular routine can lead to setbacks.

Invest in Your Health and Home at Nordica Sauna!

As we said from the start, there is no better place to invest in your health and home with the purchase of a sauna than right here at Nordica Sauna. We’ve curated the most sought-after saunas from the most trusted brands in the industry, including:

• Almost Heaven Sauna
• Auroom Sauna
• Dundalk Leisure Craft Saunas
• Golden Design Saunas
• Haljas Sauna
• Sauna Life Saunas
• Scandia Sauna
• Sunray Sauna
• And more!

You also have access to all the different styles, whether you want a barrel sauna for sale, infrared sauna for sale, traditional sauna for sale, hybrid sauna for sale, indoor sauna for sale, or outdoor sauna for sale. 

We’re passionate about helping you take control of your health through sauna therapy which is why we offer the lowest sauna prices online. In fact, you can use your FSA/HSA funds in some cases to make the purchase more affordable. We also ship most order free and offer financing.

Plus, we have sauna sizes for any home - browse our most popular below:

• 1 person sauna for sale
• 2 person sauna for sale
• 3 person sauna for sale
• 4 person sauna for sale
• 5 person sauna for sale
• 6 person sauna for sale
• 8 person sauna for sale

Don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team if you still have any questions, or simply want a personalized recommendation. We’re a click or call away.

We also have a helpful quiz below that can pinpoint the perfect sauna for your needs - so get started today as we wrap up our guide to using sauna when you have a cold.

Final Thoughts on Using a Sauna for a Cold

So, is sauna good for a cold? The answer is a clear yes - a better question is, how does sauna help with cold symptoms?You’ll experience relief from congestion, muscle aches, and stress while potentially boosting your immune response.

Plus, saunas can prevent future colds by supporting your immune system and bolstering your overall well-being, both physically and mentally. All things considered, a sauna for a cold is a great investment in your health and home.

Learn more about sauna therapy in our blog with resources like red light therapy vs infrared sauna, is infrared sauna safe, what to wear in sauna, and more.

Otherwise, it’s time to start your search for the optimal home sauna, whether you’re interested in a traditional style or the best infrared sauna for home. Whatever your preferences and goals, Nordica Sauna is here to help make it happen.

So, what are you waiting for? Find comfort and relief during cold season with a sauna tailored to your needs at Nordica Sauna today!