Why Do I Feel Dizzy and Nauseous After a Sauna Session?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Mingxin
Introduction
Dizziness and nausea after sauna use result from a drop in blood pressure caused by capillary dilation following sweating. Additionally, oxygen deficiency during sauna use can also lead to dizziness and nausea. In most cases, no specific treatment is required. It is advisable to first observe the symptoms, as this generally has minimal impact on the body. However, if dizziness and nausea persist or fail to resolve spontaneously, a detailed medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended.

  Sauna therapy is a popular health-preserving practice, especially during winter. In cold seasons, sauna therapy not only effectively regulates bodily functions but also enhances skin appearance. However, improper sauna use can pose certain health risks. So why do people experience dizziness and nausea after sauna sessions?

  Why Dizziness and Nausea Occur After Sauna Therapy

  Dizziness and nausea following sauna therapy result primarily from vasodilation of capillaries throughout the body after sweating, leading to a drop in blood pressure. Additionally, oxygen deficiency during sauna exposure contributes to these symptoms. Generally, no specific treatment is required. Close observation is recommended initially, as this typically causes minimal impact on the body. If dizziness and nausea persist without spontaneous resolution, a thorough medical evaluation at a hospital is necessary. This should include a complete blood count (CBC), physical examination, and blood pressure measurement, followed by appropriate pharmacological treatment. In cases of severe hypotension, supportive medications may be required. Patients should also ensure adequate nutritional intake and temporarily avoid sauna therapy.

  Dizziness and nausea commonly occur after sauna therapy. After rapidly entering the sweat-and-steam room, patients are advised to drink ample water to replenish lost fluids and then lie down to rest—this often helps alleviate symptoms. Sweating induces systemic vasodilation, resulting in relative intravascular volume depletion and subsequent cerebral hypoperfusion and hypoxia. This insufficient cerebral blood supply may trigger dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and cold sweats—symptoms consistent with vasovagal syncope or heat-induced orthostatic intolerance. Moreover, high temperatures, poor ventilation, and confined spaces in sauna rooms increase the risk of oxygen deprivation. Therefore, sauna duration should be moderate—not excessively prolonged. Individuals with pre-existing dizziness should avoid sauna therapy altogether and instead focus on regular physical exercise to enhance overall resilience and disease resistance.

  Thus, greater attention must be paid to this issue. After sauna therapy, individuals should drink sufficient water to restore hydration. Patients who notice any concerning symptoms are advised to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment. We hope this information proves helpful.