Approximately 12% of the U.S. population is congested at any given time.[1] A stuffy nose can make even simple tasks feel frustrating. Whether your congestion is caused by allergies, a cold, or a sinus infection, finding relief is likely your top priority. While medications and saline rinses are common treatment options, many people also turn to saunas and steam rooms.

How Heat and Moisture Affect Your Sinuses

When mucus gets lodged in your sinuses, humid air can hydrate and help it to drain more easily.

Both saunas and steam rooms expose your body to high temperatures, but they do so in different ways.

A sauna uses dry heat. Some saunas allow you to pour water over heated stones, creating brief bursts of steam that can add moisture to the air. This added humidity may provide some short-term relief for nasal congestion.

Steam rooms maintain extremely high humidity levels at all times. The humid air will be extra soothing when your nose is clogged, making steam rooms a better option for managing congestion specifically.

You can find saunas or steam rooms at some Atlanta gyms. You can visit their website or call ahead to verify that the gym has what you need.

Stay Safe While Enjoying the Heat

High temperatures cause dehydration. You need to take some safety precautions to protect your health.

Follow these rules to stay safe:

• Limit sessions to about 20 to 30 minutes—less if you start to feel uncomfortable
• Drink plenty of water before and after your visit
• Exit immediately if you begin to feel dizzy, weak or lightheaded
• Use a towel as a barrier between your skin and hot seating surfaces
• Follow all posted safety guidelines at the facility

If you have a medical condition that could make long-term heat exposure dangerous, speak with your healthcare provider before using a sauna or steam room.

There’s nothing better than that first clear breath after you’ve been congested. Saunas and steam rooms act almost like decongestants—they offer temporary relief but don’t address the underlying issue. If you have frequent congestion or other sinus issues, schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at ENT of Georgia North.

[1] Cleveland Clinic medical professional. (2022). Nasal congestion. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17980-nasal-congestion