Doctors warn against taking cold showers, especially if you are suffering from an underlying health issue
While the temperatures in most parts of India are reaching new heights every day, summer calls for feeling cool. And to do that, most people take cold showers at least twice a day. However, doctors are warning against doing so, especially if you are suffering from an underlying health issue.
While there are many benefits you can reap from cold showers – like reducing inflammation, calming itchy skin, and boosting energy – if you have certain medical conditions or vulnerabilities like high blood pressure, respiratory issues, and even diabetes, just avoid them.
Why should you avoid cold showers?
Experts say with compromised immunity due to various health conditions, shocking and sudden exposure to cold water can lead to the worsening of symptoms or the slowing down of the healing process. And so, it is always important to consult with your doctor first and seek medical advice on whether you should bath in cold water or not.
Who should avoid taking cold showers?
If you have any of these health issues, stay away from cold water:
Heart disease
If you have high cholesterol or any cardiovascular issues, you must not bathe in cold water, as it can cause sudden constriction of blood vessels. It thereby spikes blood pressure and heart rate, leading to heart attacks or heart failure.
Hypertension
Hypertension or high blood pressure causes a greater risk of cardiovascular events. Doctors say the shock of cold water can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure levels – dangerous for those already dealing with elevated pressure levels.
Survivors of stroke
If you have had a stroke or any similar cerebrovascular disease, be cautious of taking a bath in cold water. According to experts, a sudden temperature change quickly can trigger a recurrent stroke because of a rise in blood pressure.
Raynaud's disease
Raynaud’s disease – a condition that leads to small blood vessels in your fingers and toes narrowing in response to cold or stress – can be detrimental to those taking baths with cold water. This can cause the affected areas to turn white, then blue, and eventually red as blood flow returns. Exposure to cold water can lead to severe pain, numbness, and extreme discomfort.
Raynaud's can be a primary condition (Raynaud's disease) or a symptom of another underlying condition (Raynaud's phenomenon).
Asthma
Cold showers and cold water in general can be a trigger for the symptoms of asthma. If you have this breathing condition, cold air can narrow the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing. While some individuals might tolerate cold showers, others find that cold water can worsen their asthma symptoms.
