Sauna Safety: The Hidden Risks Behind the Heat

The tragic death of former model Mileva Brooks in a Cheltenham gym sauna has cast a spotlight on the potential dangers of sauna use, especially for older adults and those with underlying health conditions. While saunas are often praised for their relaxation and possible health benefits, this incident is a sobering reminder that extreme heat can have serious, even fatal, consequences.

What Happened in Cheltenham?

Mileva Brooks, aged 75, was found unresponsive in the sauna at Everlast Gym in Cheltenham on August 26, 2022. Despite being rushed to hospital, she died three days later from heatstroke. The inquest revealed that her body temperature had soared to 39.2°C, well above safe levels. There was no evidence of equipment failure or negligence by the gym—she had read the safety notice before entering, and staff responded promptly when other members raised the alarm. The coroner concluded that Mileva died from the effects of heatstroke, with no other medical condition contributing to her death.

Understanding Sauna Risks

Saunas are generally safe for most healthy people when used properly, but the risks increase with age, certain health conditions, and prolonged exposure. Here’s what can go wrong:

• Heatstroke: Spending too long in a sauna can overwhelm the body’s cooling mechanisms, leading to dangerously high core temperatures. Symptoms may include confusion, fainting, and loss of consciousness, as seen in Mileva’s case.
• Dehydration: Sweating in a sauna leads to fluid loss. Without adequate hydration, this can cause dizziness, low blood pressure, and even fainting.
• Heart complications: The heat puts extra strain on the heart, which can be risky for people with heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or recent heart attacks.
• Burns and skin irritation: Prolonged exposure or high temperatures can cause burns or blistering.
• Medication interactions: Some medications, including transdermal patches, can increase the risk of overheating or interact dangerously with the heat.

Who’s Most at Risk?

While sauna-related deaths are rare, certain groups are more vulnerable:

• Older adults, whose bodies may not regulate temperature as efficiently.
• People with heart disease, low blood pressure, or kidney problems.
• Those taking medications that affect sweating or heart rate.
• Anyone consuming alcohol or stimulants, which can impair the body’s response to heat.

Mileva Brooks’ story is not isolated. In another case, a woman in her 70s suffered severe heatstroke and multi-organ failure after spending too long in a sauna, requiring nearly two weeks of hospital care. Though she survived, she experienced seizures, liver and kidney injuries, and a heart attack—all triggered by excessive heat exposure.

How to Use Saunas Safely

If you enjoy saunas, here are some practical tips to minimize risk:

• Limit your time: Most experts recommend sessions of no more than 15–20 minutes.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water before and after your sauna session.
• Listen to your body: Leave the sauna immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unwell.
• Avoid alcohol and stimulants: These can impair your body’s ability to handle heat.
• Check with your doctor: If you have heart problems, low blood pressure, or other health concerns, get medical advice before using a sauna.
• Never use a sauna alone: If you become unwell, you’ll need someone to help.

Takeaway

Saunas can be relaxing and even beneficial for many people, but they’re not risk-free. The heartbreaking loss of Mileva Brooks is a powerful reminder to approach sauna use with caution, especially if you’re older or have health issues. Moderation, awareness, and listening to your body are the keys to enjoying saunas safely.

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