INFRARED SAUNA: Informed Consent

Using far infrared saunas may put yourself at risk if you do not fully understand how to use the sauna. Far infrared saunas creating a cure for or treating any disease is neither implied nor should be inferred.

It is not recommended to attempt to self-treat any disease with a far infrared sauna without direct supervision of a certified physician. If any of the items listed below apply to you, be certain to consult with your physician before using a far infrared sauna.

Hydration is a requirement as your body will sweat during sauna use. Drinking water is recommended before and after sauna use. Caffeinated beverages are not recommended as they dehydrate the body.

• MEDICATIONS

Individuals who are using prescription drugs should seek the advice of their personal physician or a pharmacist for possible changes in the drugs effect when the body is exposed to Far infrared waves or elevated body temperature. Diuretics, barbiturates and beta-blockers may impair the body's natural heat loss mechanisms. Some over the counter drugs such as antihistamines may also cause the body to be more prone to heat stroke.

• CARDIOVASCULAR CONDITIONS

Individuals with cardiovascular conditions or problems (hypertension I hypotension), congestive heart failure, impaired coronary circulation or those who are taking medications, which might affect blood pressure, should exercise extreme caution when exposed to prolonged heat. Heat stress increases cardiac output, blood flow, in an effort to transfer internal body heat to the outside environment via the skin (perspiration) and respiratory system. This takes place primarily due to major changes in the heart rate, which has the potential to increase by thirty (30) beats per minute for each degree increase in core body temperature. It is recommended to consult your physician prior to use of the infrared sauna.

• ALCOHOL

Contrary to popular belief, it is not advisable to attempt to "Sweat Out" a hangover. Alcohol intoxication decreases a person's judgment; therefore, they may not realize it when the body has a negative reaction to high heat. Alcohol also increases the heart rate, which may be further increased by heat stress.

• CHRONIC CONDITIONS / DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH A REDUCED ABILITY TO SWEAT OR PERSPIRE

Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Central Nervous System Tumors, and Diabetes with neuropathy are conditions that are associated with impaired sweating. It is recommended to consult your physician prior to use of the infrared sauna.

• HEMOPHILIACS / INDIVIDUALS PRONE TO BLEEDING

The use of Infrared should be avoided by anyone who is predisposed to bleeding.

• FEVER, INSENSITIVITY TO HEAT, PREGNANCY

An individual that has a fever, insensitivity to heat, and pregnancy should not use the sauna.

• JOINT INJURY

If you have a recent (acute) joint injury, it should not be heated for the first 48 hours after an injury or until the hot and swollen symptoms subside. If you have a joint or joints that are chronically hot and swollen, these joints may respond poorly to vigorous heating of any kind. Vigorous heating is strictly contraindicated in cases of enclosed infections be they dental, in joints, or in any other tissues.

• IMPLANTS

Metal pins, rods, artificial joints or any other surgical implants generally reflect Far infrared waves and thus are not heated by this system, nevertheless you should consult your surgeon prior to using an Infrared Sauna. Certainly, the usage of an Infrared Sauna must be discontinued if you experience pain near any such implants. Silicone does absorb Far infrared energy. Implanted silicone or silicone prostheses for nose or ear replacement may be warmed by the Far infrared waves. Since silicone melts at over 200°C (392°F), it should not be adversely affected by the usage of an Infrared Sauna. It is still advised that you check with your surgeon and possibly a representative from the implant manufacturer to be certain.