What shower habits may pose a risk?
1. Very hot showers
Very hot water can cause blood vessels to widen, which may lower blood pressure temporarily. This can lead to:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Fainting
- Falls
Older adults are generally more susceptible to these effects.
2. Sudden exposure to very cold water
A sudden cold shower can cause blood vessels to constrict and may temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate. For healthy people this is usually well tolerated, but for someone with significant heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure, it may place extra strain on the cardiovascular system.
3. Standing up quickly
If you’ve been sitting or lying down before showering, getting up quickly and entering a warm shower may increase the chance of dizziness due to a temporary drop in blood pressure.
Does showering cause strokes?
For most people, no. There is no good scientific evidence that taking a normal shower—morning or evening—increases the risk of stroke.
The biggest stroke risk factors are:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat)
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Managing these factors has a far greater impact on stroke risk than changing your shower routine.
Safer shower habits for older adults
- Use warm rather than very hot water.
- Take your time when standing up and getting into the shower.
- Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather.
- Install grab bars and use a non-slip bath mat if you’re at risk of falling.
- If you feel dizzy while showering, sit down if possible and seek medical advice if it happens repeatedly.
Know the warning signs of a stroke
Seek emergency medical help immediately if someone suddenly develops:
- Face drooping on one side.
- Arm weakness or numbness.
- Speech that is slurred or difficult to understand.
- Time to call emergency services without delay.
Other symptoms can include sudden vision changes, severe headache, loss of balance, or confusion.
Bottom line
The claim that a particular shower habit “increases the risk of stroke overnight” is an exaggeration. While extremely hot or cold showers may affect blood pressure temporarily in some people, the most effective ways to reduce stroke risk are controlling blood pressure, managing diabetes and cholesterol, not smoking, staying active, and following your healthcare professional’s advice.
