If you go to your local health club, you will likely see a steam room and a sauna. They both produce heat and make you sweat, but in a different way and for different purposes. It is easy to tell the difference; the steam room has a clear glass door that is steamed up, and you can see into the sauna.
Steam Rooms
Steam rooms, often referred to as wet saunas, use a steam generator that produces 100 percent humidity and a temperature of between 100 to 120 degrees F in a closed room. You feel hotter than in a dry sauna due to the high humidity, and you can't stay in there as long. Steam rooms are often useful if you suffer from asthma or bronchitis. According to the website Good Spa Guide, you should stay in the steam room for only about 15 minutes.
Saunas
Saunas, commonly called dry saunas, use a heater with volcanic rocks on top to create dry heat, up to 200 degrees F, with usually less than 20 percent humidity. They are renowned for sweating out toxins and help to draw blood to the muscles to relieve muscle tension. The Sauna and Steam Bathing Explained website suggests that you limit your stay in a dry sauna to a maximum of 30 minutes.
Benefits
Stream rooms are good for you if you have a cold. According to a 1989 study at Harvard Hospital by the Medical Research Council Common Cold Unit, "Nasal hyperthermia [inhalation of heated water vapor] can improve the course of a common cold and also give immediate relief of symptoms." Also, dry saunas appear to improve heart conditions. Noted health expert, Dr. Andrew Weil, says, "If you have [tendency to] high blood pressure or heart disease, saunas may be good for you."
Considerations
If you are unsure whether steam or sauna is best for you, give each a try for a few minutes and then see how you feel. Because of their warm moisture, steam rooms can be a breeding ground for bacteria and germs unless cleaned regularly. Make sure your gym is keeping it clean. Dry saunas have two tiers of wooden benches, so sit on the lower ones first, as it is cooler there. Do not use the steam or sauna in your bare feet; always wear shoes.
Warnings
Steam rooms and dry saunas provide relaxation and do have some known health benefits. However, you should avoid using the steam or sauna if you have been drinking, are pregnant, have high blood pressure or have a heart condition. If you have any concerns, always check with your doctor or health care provider before using a steam room or sauna. Drink plenty of water to help keep yourself hydrated.
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