Should You Go In A Hot Tub With A Fever? 

When I feel ill, I sometimes crave the luxurious feeling of a hot tub. However, not everything that feels good for you is actually good for you. So, it’s important not to make your symptoms worse. 

Overall, it is not advisable to use a hot tub with a fever but if you are intent on it, there are some extra precautions you should take before doing so and some risks that you should be aware of before you do to ensure that you don’t make your fever worse.

What Is A Fever?

As we embark on our exploration of the potential benefits of using a hot tub when afflicted by a fever, it is crucial to establish a clear understanding of what constitutes a fever. A fever, in medical terms, is defined as an elevated body temperature that surpasses the normal range, typically above 37.5°C (99.5°F) for adults and 38°C (100.4°F) for children.

This rise in body temperature is a natural response triggered by the immune system as it combats infections or illnesses. While a fever can be an uncomfortable experience, accompanied by symptoms such as chills, sweating, and fatigue, it is important to recognize that it is a protective mechanism employed by the body to fight off harmful pathogens.

Can using a hot tub boost my immune system?

The idea of soaking in a hot tub to alleviate the discomforts of a cold or flu has gained traction, but does it truly offer benefits beyond mere relaxation? The answer lies in the intricate workings of our immune system and the therapeutic effects of elevated body temperatures.

When we are afflicted by a viral infection, such as the common cold or influenza, our bodies mount a defense by producing a fever. This rise in temperature creates an inhospitable environment for the virus, hindering its ability to replicate and spread. By immersing ourselves in the warm waters of a hot tub, we can mimic this natural process and induce a mild, artificial fever.

The heat from the hot tub triggers a similar response in our bodies, stimulating the immune system to increase the production of white blood cells and antibodies, which are essential in combating viral infections. This heightened immune response can potentially aid in the faster elimination of the virus, reducing the duration and severity of symptoms.

Furthermore, the warm water and massage jets of a hot tub can promote increased blood circulation, facilitating the efficient delivery of these disease-fighting cells and antibodies to various parts of the body. This enhanced circulation also helps to alleviate muscle aches and pains, a common symptom of viral infections.

However, it is important to note that while a hot tub can provide temporary relief and potentially boost our immune system’s response, it should not be considered a cure-all for viral infections. Seeking professional medical advice and following recommended treatments remain essential for a comprehensive and effective recovery.

Why You Shouldn’t Go In A Hot Tub With A Fever

It’s important to note that a fever is generally a symptom of something else, normally a virus. Without being sure of what your fever is a symptom of, it’s impossible to make a fully informed decision about going in a hot tub. 

You should absolutely avoid using a hot tub if you have any other symptoms like chills, or vomiting. I once vomited in a hot tub (from alcohol, not a fever) and let me tell you, I still have nightmares about it! 

If you have any preexisting medical conditions, you should consult with your doctor before using a hot tub. Those same preexisting conditions could also worsen the symptoms of a fever, so be extra careful if this applies to you. 

If you have a fever, there is a high chance that you are infectious, so getting in a hot tub with other people will risk passing the infection to them. On the other hand, you are also at more risk of fainting when you have a fever, and so going in the hot tub alone also puts you at higher risk. This is partly why I personally would avoid going in a hot tub at all when you have a fever. 

Precautions To Take If Using A Hot Tub With A Fever

If, despite my warnings, you are insistent on using a hot tub with a fever, there are some precautions you should take to minimise risk. I want to make it clear that I STRONGLY advise against using a hot tub with a fever. 
 

• Monitor Your Temperature: 
  A fever is often accompanied by a high temperature, and so you need to be extra careful about overheating if you use a hot tub. Be sure to monitor your temperature closely and get out of the tub if your fever goes above 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius). 

• Stay Hydrated 
  Fevers often make you sweat, and so do hot tubs, you run the risk of being dehydrated by combining these. If you are going to use a hot tub with a fever, it is important to drink plenty of fluids before and after to maintain your hydration and replace the liquid you have lost via sweating. 
  
  

• Soak Responsibly
  While the warm water can be incredibly soothing, it is essential to exercise moderation and caution when soaking with a fever. Limit your sessions to approximately 20-30 minutes at a time to prevent dehydration and overheating. Ensure you have a cool, refreshing beverage on hand to stay hydrated throughout the process.

• Embrace the Steam 
  As the hot water generates steam, take deep breaths and allow the warm, moisture-rich air to enter your nasal passages and lungs. This can help loosen mucus and alleviate congestion, making it easier to breathe and potentially reducing coughing fits.

• Engage the Massage Jets
  The massaging action of the jets can provide targeted relief for muscle aches and pains that often accompany a fever. Adjust the jet settings to focus on areas of discomfort, allowing the warm water and gentle pressure to soothe and relax tense muscles.

• Cool Down Gradually
  After your hot tub session, it is crucial to cool down gradually to avoid sudden temperature fluctuations that could exacerbate your symptoms. Wrap yourself in a warm robe or towel and sip on a cool, hydrating beverage to facilitate a smooth transition back to a comfortable body temperature.

• Monitor Your Condition
  While the hot tub can offer temporary relief and support, it is essential to monitor your condition closely. If your fever persists or worsens, or if you experience any concerning symptoms, seek prompt medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional.

• Clean Hot Tub Afterwards: 
  If you have used a hot tub while you have a fever, there is a chance you have contaminated the water with whatever virus was causing your fever. Be sure to clean the hot tub before you or anyone else uses it again. 

• Listen To Your Body: 
  Be extra aware of signals your body is sending you. If you start feeling faint, dizzy, nauseous, or tired, you should get out of the hot tub immediately. 

• Consider Alternatives: 
  A hot bath or a shower might provide you with a similar sense relaxation and relief that a hot tub would, but without the added risk. 

Does A Hot Tub Help With A Cold?

A cold is a lot less intense than a fever and there is not as much risk to using a hot tub when you have a cold. Although you should still pay attention to the precautions listed above and leave the hot tub if you start feeling more unwell. 

Many people find that spending time in a hot tub can help them feel better when they’re suffering from a cold or flu.  

I find that when I have a cold or blocked sinuses, that the heat and humidity of a hot tub can help loosen my congestion and make it easier for me to breathe. This is similar to the hydrotherapy treatments they used to give TB sufferers, although obviously nowhere near as intense! 

Relieving Nasal Congestion In A Hot Tub

One of the most frustrating symptoms of the common cold is the persistent nasal congestion that seems to block our airways, making it challenging to breathe, eat, or even sleep comfortably. Enter the therapeutic power of steam. As you immerse yourself in the hot tub, the warm, moisture-rich air can work wonders in loosening mucus and reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.

To enhance this effect, consider adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil or Vicks VapoRub to the water or placing a small amount under your nose. The menthol and camphor compounds in these products can further aid in clearing congestion, allowing you to breathe more easily.

Are Hot Tubs Good For You When You Are Sick?

Yes, if used carefully, hot tubs can be beneficial for you when you feel under the weather. Soaking in warm water can help reduce muscle aches and pains and improve your blood circulation. 

The heat and steam can also help with sinus congestion. I regularly get blocked sinuses and I often find that 15 minutes in the hot tub helps clear my sinuses and lets me breathe much easier. This is especially useful in the evenings when sinus inflammation can be worse. 

Hot tubs also help you to relax and relieve stress. As stress can cause or worsen a variety of health conditions. Taking time out to regularly relax can be beneficial for your health and a hot tub is a great way to do that. I personally feel like my own health has improved a great deal since I started using a hot tub and I think a big reason for that is that using a hot tub means setting aside time when I’m relaxing and away from my laptop/work. 

That said, if you are suffering from any persistent or reoccurring health problems, you should consult your doctor. A hot tub can be beneficial but should never replace proper medical care, medicine, healthy eating, and other parts of a well-rounded healthy way of living. 

So go ahead and give it a try the next time you’re feeling under the weather, just remember to be careful and follow the tips in this article to stay safe! 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the potential benefits of using a hot tub when battling a fever or viral infection, such as the common cold or influenza, are multifaceted and worth exploring. By carefully adjusting the water temperature and soaking responsibly, you can leverage the therapeutic properties of warm water to support your body’s natural immune response.

Remember, while a hot tub can be a valuable ally in combating a fever, it should never be considered a substitute for proper medical care. Always consult with your healthcare provider before attempting to use a hot tub as a therapeutic measure, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.

The elevated temperature and steam can help alleviate congestion, soothe muscle aches, and promote restorative sleep, all of which contribute to a more comfortable recovery process. Additionally, the massaging action of the jets can provide targeted relief for areas of discomfort, further enhancing your overall well-being.

However, it is crucial to approach hot tub use with caution and moderation, ensuring proper hydration and gradually cooling down after each session. Most importantly, while a hot tub can offer temporary relief and potentially boost your immune system, it should never be considered a substitute for professional medical advice and treatment.

By combining the soothing powers of a hot tub with guidance from healthcare professionals, you can embark on a holistic journey towards recovery, embracing the natural healing processes of your body while finding solace in the warm embrace of the water.