Infrared sauna can help with allergy symptoms

Did you know that infrared saunas can help with allergy symptoms? Approximately 20% of the population in Norway, around 1 million people, suffer from pollen allergy, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever. While some take it in stride, for others, it's a source of despair and discomfort. Many also struggle with chronic rhinitis, known as "all-year rhinitis," which causes allergic symptoms year-round.

Good news! Studies show that infrared saunas can alleviate allergy symptoms.

What happens during an allergy?

Allergy is a condition caused by a hyperactive immune system and an abnormal reaction to substances that are essentially harmless. Antibodies, allergens, are formed, leading to the release of, among other things, histamines. Typical symptoms include increased fluid and mucus discharge in the nose and eyes, shortness of breath, and skin changes such as redness, swelling, and itching. In pollen allergy sufferers, the immune system reacts allergically to proteins from certain trees and plants. Mucous membranes become inflamed, especially in the nose and eyes. One sneezes, the nose and eyes itch, and the nose runs.

What do the studies say?

Studies show that infrared saunas and far infrared heat (FIR) can alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR).

In one study, researchers aimed to observe the clinical effects of FIR treatment in patients with allergic rhinitis. Here, 31 patients used a FIR lamp pointed at the nasal region (30 cm away) for seven days (40 minutes). All participants reported significant relief of symptoms, including nasal congestion, itchy nose and eyes, and sneezing. After seven days, their sense of smell also improved.

In another, more comprehensive study, researchers aimed to investigate the effect of infrared saunas on patients with allergic rhinitis.

Results from six weeks of IR sauna use

Would six weeks of IR sauna use affect the autonomic nervous system, nasal airflow, and lung function in patients?

26 patients with diagnosed allergic rhinitis participated. They were divided into two groups. While the control group of 13 continued life as normal, the remaining 13 were treated with an IR sauna three times a week for a total of 30 minutes per session. HRV (heart rate variability), nasal airflow, and lung function were measured before the start and after three and six weeks.

The researchers concluded that IR sauna improved sympathetic activity in the autonomic nervous system: that the overactive component of the autonomic nervous system, which triggers allergy attacks, was reduced. In addition, lung capacity and airflow through the nose increased. Participants themselves reported an improvement in allergy symptoms.

Important clarification

"All-year rhinitis" is likely due to an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system. Symptoms can be triggered by cold air, smoke, humidity, and similar factors. Allergies are mainly treated by avoiding allergens or by taking medications and immunotherapy. Sauna is not a substitute for medication but can be a tool that can help alleviate symptoms.