Doctors and health experts warn against some bathing methods that may negatively impact health and may even be life-threatening due to their impact on blood pressure inside the body, especially in the head.
Some people may prefer to take a hot bath because their bodies cannot tolerate the cold water and they fear their heart will stop due to the shock it may cause.
The Dangers of Taking a Hot Bath
However, a German doctor has sounded the alarm about the dangers of taking a hot bath, stressing that raising the bath temperature by just a few degrees can cause serious complications, including fainting, and may even be life-threatening.
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Dr. Max Madhaley, a vascular health expert, explained that taking a bath with extremely hot water causes the blood vessels in the skin to dilate, a natural response by the body to try to lower its temperature. However, this dilation can cause a sharp drop in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness and loss of consciousness, according to the Daily Mail.
Fainting in the Shower
He added that fainting in the shower poses a double risk due to the presence of hard surfaces that could cause head or other body parts to collide, increasing the risk of serious injuries or fractures.
To avoid this, doctors recommend setting the water temperature to a moderate level or using a thermostat that prevents exceeding safe temperatures. People at greater risk of fainting, such as the elderly or those with chronic conditions, are also advised to use assistive devices in the bathroom, such as handles, seats, or non-slip surfaces, and to provide an emergency device such as a wrist-worn alarm to sound a distress signal in the event of a fall.
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In a video that has garnered over 14 million views on TikTok, Madhahali also warned of the effects of hot showers on the skin, hair, and even the immune system.
Hot Water and the Problem of Dehydration
He stated that hot water strips away the natural oils that keep the skin moisturized and protected, leading to dryness. It also damages hair in the same way, stripping it of its protective layer.
Regarding its impact on immunity, he noted that hot water may weaken the beneficial bacteria naturally present on the skin, which form the first line of defense against infection, potentially reducing the efficiency of the body's immune response.
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