While bathing is generally safe and relaxing, doing it under the wrong conditions or at the wrong time can increase the risk of stroke—especially for older adults or people with pre-existing health conditions like high blood pressure, heart issues, or poor circulation.

1. Avoid Showering Right After Waking Up

Why it can be risky:
In the morning, your blood pressure tends to be naturally elevated. Jumping into a cold shower can cause your blood vessels to tighten suddenly, which may trigger a spike in blood pressure and increase the likelihood of a stroke.

Helpful tip:
Give your body 30–60 minutes to wake up before bathing. Stretch, hydrate, and warm up gently before stepping into the shower.

2. Don’t Bathe Right After a Meal

Why it can be risky:
Taking a bath right after eating can draw blood away from the brain and digestive organs, as more blood flows to the skin to help manage your body temperature. This shift can cause dizziness or fainting.

Helpful tip:
Wait at least 1 to 2 hours after eating before bathing to allow proper digestion and stable blood flow.

3. Skip Bathing When You’re Exhausted or Unwell

Why it can be risky:
Exhaustion or illness can cause low blood pressure. Standing in a hot shower or sitting in a warm bath might cause your blood pressure to drop even further, possibly reducing blood flow to the brain and leading to fainting—or in some cases, triggering a stroke in those who are vulnerable.

Helpful tip:
Rest and hydrate first. If you really need to bathe, opt for warm (not hot) water, and have someone nearby to assist you if you’re feeling weak.

4. Be Cautious About Bathing Late at Night

Why it can be risky:
Your body temperature drops naturally at night to prepare for sleep. Taking a cold bath late in the evening can shock your system—especially in older adults—putting strain on your heart and circulation.

Helpful tip:
If you must bathe before bed, make sure the water is comfortably warm and that your bathroom isn’t too cold.

5. Avoid Extremely Hot or Cold Water

Why it can be risky:
Both hot and cold water can put stress on your blood vessels. Hot water can make them expand too much, which may cause a drop in blood pressure, lightheadedness, or fainting. On the other hand, cold water can cause them to constrict suddenly, spiking your blood pressure and raising stroke risk.

Helpful tip:
Stick with lukewarm water, especially if you’re older or dealing with cardiovascular or circulatory issues.

General Safety Tips for Bathing:

Drink water before bathing to stay hydrated.

Keep the bathroom comfortably warm to avoid sudden changes in body temperature.

If you’re alone and feeling unwell, don’t lock the bathroom door.

Sit down if you feel faint, dizzy, or weak during your bath or shower.