A person who dies in a sauna may have a number of contributory factors. These are often influenced by the person's culture.
Features of sauna use in Korea:
(1) a sauna in Korea is known as a jjimjilbang.
(2) a sauna is often used as a cure for a hangover and after heavy alcohol use
(3) a sauna is often used to relax or to reduce fatigue, which can result in the person falling asleep
Factors that may contribute to death:
(1) underlying cardiovascular disease
(2) using the sauna alone, at least initially
(3) alcohol intoxication
Features of sauna deaths in intoxicated individuals:
(1) male sex (OR 17.4)
(2) prone positioning (OR 11.3)
(3) presumption of falling asleep
In addition, medications could affect the patient's ability to respond to induced hyperthermia.
