Can Far-Infrared Sauna Alleviate Chronic Fatigue?

Just in the United States chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) [1] affects millions of people. This condition is characterized by a depleting and persistent tiredness. 

A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey shows that over four million Americans live with this debilitating disease. Yet about 90% of people remain undiagnosed see this article in Medical News Today [2]. A remarkable reality. 

This hidden epidemic affects individuals across the nation, and many search for answers and relief. In this quest for relief, infrared saunas could feature as a possible beacon of hope.

The infrared (or IR) sauna uses infrared lights to warm the body, an approach that gains traction for its possible advantages. For people who have to deal with the unrelenting fatigue of CFS, infrared saunas might be a valid alternative towards relief and perhaps recovery. 

In this article we’ll share the latest research on this topic and examine the science behind far infrared saunas. 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a long-term condition. It is characterized by extreme tiredness that rest does not improve. Medical professionals diagnose it when constant fatigue lasts for six months or more. 

The condition usually comes with more symptoms, like issues with memory or concentration, unrefreshing sleep, and drawn-out exhaustion after activities. People with this condition also report muscle or joint pain, frequent headaches, and tender lymph nodes.

The exact cause of CFS remains unknown. It might stem from infections, physical or emotional trauma, or a combination of factors. The diagnosis process involves ruling out other conditions. Doctors do this through a review of medical history and various tests. 

While no cure exists, treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Strategies comprise cognitive-behavioral therapy, techniques for conserving energy, and medication for pain and sleep disturbances.

The severity of CFS varies from patient to patient, and can impact on daily activities in a major way. It often requires adjustments to personal and professional life. Due to the complexity of CFS and the variability of symptoms, managing the condition is a challenge for doctors and patients.

Many affected people try various methods to alleviate the on-going exhaustion and related symptoms.

The science behind far Infrared Saunas

When you’re affected by chronic fatigue syndrome, the gentle heat of a far infrared sauna might give you considerable reprieve. It relaxes muscles, improves circulation, and helps the body detoxify, directly addressing CFS symptoms. 

The heat also helps to relax and reduce stress and tensions. This eases the persistent tiredness characteristic of CFS, because infrared saunas use light waves to directly warm the body. This method allows for deeper tissue penetration than traditional saunas. 

This way, users of the far infrared sauna may enjoy the therapeutic effects of heat at lower, more comfortable temperatures.

Benefits of far Infrared Sauna for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Individuals suffering from chronic fatigue might find solace in the comforting warmth of far infrared saunas. Recent studies are particularly encouraging, highlighting far infrared sauna therapy as a viable option to mitigate the symptoms of CFS.

Symptom Relief

CFS is characterized by a multitude of exhausting symptoms. Studies into this new kind of treatment for CFS [3] and into the effects of repeated treatment with far infrared saunas [4] have shown that regular sessions in a far infrared sauna can help alleviate common symptoms of CFS. The gentle, pervasive heat is known to relax muscles and reduce discomfort offering a potential respite from the daily challenges of CFS. Furthermore, this heat leads to:

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Improved Sleep

The relaxation-inducing effects of infrared saunas are well-documented. For CFS patients struggling with sleep disturbances, the calming environment of an infrared sauna may foster better and more restorative sleep, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Fatigue Reduction

The deep-seated tiredness that defines CFS can be debilitating. Infrared sauna sessions offer a retreat, promoting relaxation and decreasing overall fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial for CFS patients, helping them to better manage and conserve their energy levels.

Immune System Support

The use of regular infrared sauna can boost immune function. Sauna use stimulates white blood cell production and improves their circulation, which then fortifies the body's immune response. This is crucial for CFS patients, who often deal with immune dysfunction and are more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

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Mental Health Benefits

Infrared saunas may also offer mental health benefits. The soothing environment of an infrared sauna can positively affect mood, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common in individuals with CFS. A pilot study on Waon therapy [5] specifically noted improvements in mood disturbances, including anxiety and depression, post-therapy.

Research, focusing on the therapeutic heat of far infrared saunas, shows that CFS symptoms like fatigue, pain, and overall mood improve dramatically. The far infrared sauna offers a glimmer of hope if you seek alternative or supplementary treatments to manage the symptoms of your condition more effectively.

At first glance, installing a sauna at home might initially seem out of reach. But there's an innovative solution that brings this therapeutic experience into your living space without the hassle or high costs.

Starting at just $140, the infrared sauna blanket and pemf mats present compelling options. Not only is it affordable, but its convenience and ease of use mean you can start enjoying the benefits almost immediately.

After your session, it's just as simple to clean and store away. If you're considering alternative or supplementary ways to manage your condition, the sauna blanket could be the piece of the puzzle you've been searching for, blending comfort, convenience, and care into your daily wellness routine.

Diane Sargent

REFERENCES

1. John Hopkins Medicine, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/chronic-fatigue-syndrome

2. Robby Berman, Chronic fatigue syndrome more common than previous estimates, CDC says, In: Medical News Today, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-higher-than-previous-estimates-cdc-survey

3. Akinori Masuda, Takao Munemoto and Chuwa Tei, A New Treatment: Thermal Therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17561703/

4. Akinori Masuda et al., The effects of repeated thermal therapy for two patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15992574/

5. Yuji Soejima et al., Effects of Waon therapy on chronic fatigue syndrome: a pilot study, PubMed,  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25748743/

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