Hi, I bought an infrared sauna for my fibromyalgia, but subsequently read that it is contraindicated for PN--no explanation why. I do love the sauna--helps with muscle pain and helps me get a good night's sleep, but after about a month of using it, my PN did worsen. Yikes, please tell me it isn't related.

I found a few things on the subject-

[Chronic Conditions / Diseases Associated With A Reduced Ability To Sweat Or Perspire

Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Central Nervous System Tumors and Diabetes with Neuropathy are conditions that are associated with impaired sweating.]
http://www.sunlightsaunas.com/contra...4Pa38Ta38Lc3r0


and-

[DO NOT attempt to self-treat any disease with an Infrared Sauna without direct supervision of a certified physician. If you have a disease, be certain to consult with your primary-care physician before using an Infrared Sauna.

In all situations, hydration is a requirement for sauna use. Drinking advanced electrolyte replacement water is recommended before and after sauna use.

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.]
http://www.soleilsaunas.com/contra.htm

Thanks Jo55. Ah, so it's the sweating issue. You are right about getting advice, but 99.99% of the time my doctors will say "we don't understand these things" nor do they provide much in the way of options, especially in the case of FMS, MCS and PN, that's why people self-treat! In fact two neurologist have pretty much booted me out of their offices and will not address PN--and that's the thanks I get for working in health care for 30 years. I do have a great deal of trouble sweating and it is only after two months of sauna use that I have started to sweat, so maybe it is something that can be re-learned. The manufacturer of my sauna recomended that I hydrate with Gatoraid or eat dulse which I've been doing. Perhaps that's is why I've started sweating. Hopefully am not doing any harm in the process. One thing that a local sauna guy told me is that most people use the suana a too high a temperature. The ideal temp is below 50 centigrade. The lower the temp, the deeper the heat penetration, and that is just plain ol' physics because longer wavelenth energy is less readily attenuated.

Heat..... hurts!
Even in summertime when I get overheated, my PN flares.
I can't imagine a sauna doing any good, and possible
irreparable harm - regarding PN. Hot baths or whirlpools are
also out of the question.