Infrared technology is critical in many businesses, military, and science contexts. It makes different devices valuable and possible, including lasers, night-vision goggles, weather satellites, communications devices, and thermographic cameras. Infrared waves are highly versatile, but sometimes they can be a bit unsafe and dangerous.
Infrared heating is entirely natural and safe for our bodies & well-being. Our bodies are designed to emit infrared efficiently, and the cozy and warm feeling from the infrared is pretty comfortable. UV is harmful, not infrared; therefore, no need to worry.
Today, many infrared technology devices are introduced, and people also get curious to know whether these are safe for them or not. We will talk about the two most prominent infrared technology innovations, i.e., Infrared Heaters and Infrared Sauna. So, here we go;
Infrared heaters: are they safe for your health?
Since the functioning of the infrared heater technology is mainly based on the process of electromagnetic radiation to boost the room temperatures, a few concerns related to their safety are also there. Sounds good, right?
In general, we link the “radiation” word with a thing that’s pretty harmful and injurious to our health. But what we frequently ignore is the fact that the sun even works in a similar electromagnetic radiation procedure, and we are used to this.
There are many radiation levels, and not all kinds of radiation are hazardous, and there is a defined restriction where such radiation is considered harmful to health. The radiation level that is mainly regarded as injurious to health is ionizing radiation, which can even cause diseases like cancer.
Plus, in the case of infrared heaters, no proof has been there yet regarding if they can lead to any health risks. So, people who are not having any serious diseases or health risks can use these technology infrared heaters without needing to be worried.
Infrared sauna: benefits & side effects
The most prominent and incredible benefits of utilizing an infrared sauna are mainly relaxation and better sleep, which is impressive. However, relief from swollen and sore muscles is top of the list.
Also, it protects the skin from damage, too. But just like everything else, cons also come with the pros. So, before you heat up, just take note of the potential risks and side effects to keep yourself safe from any danger.
The negative signs & symptoms of sauna mainly include:
- Low blood pressure
- Moderate to mild heat discomfort
- Light-headedness
- Airway irritation
- Transient leg pain
Research also found that consistent exposure to sauna can demonstrate motility and sperm count impairment.
When should you avoid infrared saunas?
Typically, infrared saunas are mostly considered safe and beneficial for people. If you are on any medications, have a medical condition, or have implanted medical machines or devices, you have to be cautious.
Below conditions can make even more prone to overheating and dehydration:
- Low blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Intake of medications like diuretics and drugs that lead to low blood pressure, or medications causing dizziness, etc.
The people having the following conditions should avoid infrared sauna use without talking to their doctors:
- Motor and nerve function conditions: If you have neurological deficits, your ability to respond and sense the heat intensity might put you at high risk for burn or heat injuries.
- Pregnancy considerations: If you are pregnant, avoid using an infrared sauna unless you have received complete clearance from the physician.
- Age considerations: Don’t use the sauna if you’ve got an age-related restriction. This even includes older adults who are more prone to dizziness and dehydration with dry heat as it can cause falls. Discuss using an infrared sauna with their physician before trying it for toddlers.
- Unhealed wounds: If you are recovering from any surgery or even have some open wounds, wait unless these particular areas are correctly healed. Then talk with your doctor first before getting the infrared sauna treatments.
If the side effects or risks outweigh its benefits, remember the benefits of the saunas are primarily because of the main psychological effects of increased heart rate and sweating, just like routine exercise.
