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Health Risks of Infrared Lamps

Infrared lamps have a variety of uses, some of which include treating pain due to arthritis and other disorders. Dry heat saunas use the lamps to create heat. These applications, however, have health risks associated with them, including burns to the skin, swelling, prenatal dangers, dehydration and mineral loss and heat stroke.

  1. Skin Damage

    • The Far Infrared Medical organization warns that burns and even permanent damage to the skin can result from exposure to infrared lamps. Brief overexposure can result in a sunburn-like burn. Longer exposure can yield a more severe burn, which can lead to scarring.

    Radiation Poisoning/Exposure

    • Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat some material (charcoal is common), and this heats the air within the sauna. The website infraredsaunainfo.com states that radiation poisoning is one of the major health risks of infrared lamps associated with these saunas. Staying in for longer than one to two hours each day can lead to too much radiation being absorbed, and symptoms of radiation sickness can manifest. These can include lethargy, a burn to the skin, hair loss, and even nausea and vomiting.

    Lack of Hydration

    • Dehydration is more likely to occur given the high temperature within the sauna and the dry heat. People are often not aware of just how much they sweat while inside. Drink plenty of liquids to prevent loss of vital minerals and fluids. Failing to do so can lead to lethargy, feelings of fatigue and dizziness.

    Drug Interactions

    • Heat stroke upon exposure to infrared energy is more likely if taking certain medications, as mentioned by the website infraredsaunainfo.com. Be sure to discuss this possible risk with your doctor before using an infrared sauna. Warning signs to watch for while in the sauna include lightheadedness, dizziness, spots in front of your eyes and severe feelings of lethargy.

    Injuries to the Joints

    • According to the website sauna-talk.com, a person with any sort of joint injury that includes swelling should not use an infrared sauna for two days. The heat can result in more swelling and soreness to the joint.

    Artificial Implants

    • The website sauna-talk.com warns that if you have any sort of silicone prosthetic device or breast implants, they can absorb so much infrared energy that they become too hot or even melt. The high temperature can burn your internal organs and tissue, and melted silicone can enter the bloodstream and be toxic.

    High Fever

    • Do not use an infrared lamp if you have a fever, because the additional increase in body temperature can lead to coma or even death, according to the website sauna-talk.com.

    Vasodilation

    • You should refrain from using an infrared sauna if you suffer from hemophilia, which is a rare bleeding disorder. As mentioned by the website sauna-talk.com, the heat causes the blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to bleeding. Without treatment, massive hemorrhaging and even death can result.

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