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Sauna effects on hemorheology and other variables
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|August 1, 1986
Summary
Acute sauna use temporarily reduces blood fluidity, impacting viscosity and red blood cell function. Regular, long-term sauna sessions, however, show minimal hemorheological changes, suggesting negligible long-term effects.
Area of Science:
- Hemodynamics and Cardiovascular Physiology
- Therapeutic Modalities
Background:
- Sauna therapy is a common practice with potential physiological effects.
- Understanding sauna's impact on hemorheology is crucial for patient safety, especially those with cardiovascular risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute and long-term effects of sauna bathing on blood fluidity and hemorheological parameters.
- To assess the clinical relevance of these changes in individuals with cardiovascular conditions.
Main Methods:
- Measurements of blood viscosity, plasma viscosity, hematocrit, red blood cell filterability, and aggregation.
- Comparison of hemorheological parameters after acute sauna exposure versus regular eight-week sauna treatment.
Main Results:
- Acute sauna exposure significantly decreased blood fluidity.
- Regular eight-week sauna treatment resulted in minor changes in blood viscosity and hematocrit.
- Long-term sauna use showed only slight variations in hematologic measurements, calcium, and serum protein patterns.
Conclusions:
- Sauna bathing exerts predominantly acute, adverse effects on hemorheology.
- Long-term effects of regular sauna use on blood fluidity appear negligible.
- Consideration of sauna's acute hemorheological impact is important for patients with high cardiovascular risks and hypoperfusion.