Hot showers taken to relieve fatigue may actually threaten heart and vascular health, experts have warned. They caution that hot water can cause a sharp drop in blood pressure and overload the heart, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes in severe cases.
British daily Daily Mail recently reported warnings from medical experts that the habit of taking hot showers raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. When hot water touches the skin, blood vessels near the surface dilate to regulate body temperature, and as blood rushes toward the skin, overall blood pressure drops sharply. The heart then contracts much faster and more forcefully than usual to compensate for the lowered blood pressure.
Studies have found that during hot showers, heart rate surged by an average of 32%, while stroke volume per beat increased by 44%. Such cardiovascular strain is particularly dangerous for the elderly and those with underlying conditions. A sudden drop in blood pressure can cause dizziness or fainting, leading to falls. In patients whose blood pressure regulation is impaired due to autonomic nervous system disorders, oxygen supply to the heart can be cut off, potentially worsening into a heart attack or stroke.
The elderly, those with cardiovascular disease, and people with low blood pressure or circulation problems should avoid hot showers. Those taking blood pressure medication, individuals who are dehydrated, and people who frequently experience dizziness also need to be cautious, as sudden vascular changes can cause them to collapse.
Experts recommend a safe shower temperature of 36.6 to 40.5°C. Staying within this range can reduce the burden on the cardiovascular system and also help prevent skin problems such as damage to the skin's protective barrier, eczema, and redness caused by high temperatures.
