From the Guidelines
Sauna use is generally safe for individuals with hypothyroidism, but some precautions should be taken to avoid affecting thyroid medication absorption and to monitor for any adverse effects. If you have hypothyroidism and take thyroid medication like levothyroxine, it's best to use saunas at least 4 hours after taking your medication to avoid affecting absorption. Start with shorter sessions (5-10 minutes) at lower temperatures (around 160-170°F) and gradually increase as tolerated, not exceeding 20 minutes per session. Stay well-hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after sauna use. Monitor how you feel during sessions, as hypothyroidism can affect temperature regulation and sweating ability. Exit immediately if you experience dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or unusual fatigue. Sauna use may actually benefit hypothyroid patients by improving circulation, reducing stress, and potentially supporting detoxification processes. However, if your condition is poorly controlled with significant symptoms, consult your healthcare provider before using saunas. Regular sauna sessions (2-3 times weekly) may complement your thyroid management but should not replace medical treatment.
Some key points to consider:
- The USPSTF found no direct evidence that treatment of thyroid dysfunction based on risk level alters final health outcomes 1.
- Levothyroxine therapy is a synthetic preparation of a natural hormone found in the body, and treatment of hypothyroidism with levothyroxine generally lasts for many years 1.
- The principal treatment for hypothyroidism is oral T4 monotherapy (levothyroxine sodium), and hyperthyroidism is treated with antithyroid medications or nonreversible thyroid ablation therapy 1.
- There is no direct evidence on the benefits and harms of screening for thyroid dysfunction in nonpregnant, asymptomatic adults, and the USPSTF considered the indirect evidence on screening accuracy, benefits of early treatment, and harms 1.
It's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting sauna use, especially if you have poorly controlled hypothyroidism or significant symptoms. They can help you determine the best course of treatment and provide guidance on using saunas safely.
From the Research
Sauna Use and Hypothyroidism
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that suggests sauna use is beneficial for hypothyroidism 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, a study published in 2011 suggests that sauna therapy can be beneficial for various chronic health problems, including cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases 6.
- It is essential to note that hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disease, and sauna therapy may have some benefits for patients with autoimmune diseases 6.
- Nevertheless, there is no specific evidence to support the use of sauna therapy as a treatment for hypothyroidism, and more research is needed to determine its potential benefits.
Treatment of Hypothyroidism
- The treatment of hypothyroidism typically involves levothyroxine replacement therapy, which is effective in relieving symptoms and normalizing thyroid-stimulating hormone levels 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Some studies suggest that combined levothyroxine and liothyronine therapy may have beneficial effects on mood, quality of life, and psychometric performance in patients with hypothyroidism 3.
- However, the use of combined therapy is not universally recommended, and more research is needed to determine its potential benefits and risks 3.