Bach Mai Hospital treats elderly man for multi-organ failure after sauna use

A 73-year-old American man was hospitalized in critical condition after engaging in exercise followed by more than an hour of sauna use. Upon discovery, the patient was in a deep coma with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 5/15, experiencing low blood pressure and a high fever of 39.5°C.

Medical staff at Bach Mai Hospital identified several severe complications, including heatstroke, acute liver and kidney injury, rhabdomyolysis, coagulation disorders, thrombocytopenia, and urinary tract infection. Due to the severity of the multi-organ failure, doctors utilized invasive mechanical ventilation and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) to support kidney function and metabolic control.

After 17 days of intensive care, the patient successfully recovered, regained consciousness, and was discharged in stable condition. Medical experts warn that combining prolonged sauna sessions with physical exercise can pose significant risks, particularly for the elderly, due to potential dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and circulatory strain.