Doctors have issued warnings regarding the dangers of prolonged sauna use without proper hydration, which can lead to rare but life-threatening heat stroke, even in healthy individuals. A case study published in BMJ Case Reports highlighted a woman in her 70s who collapsed in a sauna after about 45 minutes of stretching. She experienced a dangerously high core body temperature of 42°C (107.6°F) and underwent severe complications, including a seizure and signs of organ failure. Medical intervention involved rapid cooling and intravenous fluids. Although she regained consciousness within hours and eventually recovered after 26 days, the case underscores the potential severity of heat-related incidents.
The report indicates that heat stroke can occur in elderly individuals and notes that mortality rates increase with age and organ dysfunction. With climate change leading to higher global temperatures, the risks of heat stroke are expected to rise, particularly during heat waves. The authors stress the importance of hydration and monitoring in sauna environments. The woman’s experience serves as a caution for regular sauna users to remain vigilant about hydration and duration of use.
