As the weather turns colder, more people are embracing hot baths. It's understood that soaking in hot water can boost immunity, relieve fatigue, reduce stress, and benefit overall physical and mental health. However, improper bathing methods can not only be detrimental to health but even life-threatening.Reports indicate that Japan sees approximately 14,000 bathing-related deaths annually, with nearly 90% occurring among individuals aged 65 and older. Particularly during December and January, temperature fluctuations increase strain on blood vessels and the heart, making falls during bathing and subsequent drowning especially prevalent.
Professor Takanobu Higashimaru from the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Sakura Hospital, Toho University Medical Center, explains that soaking in water above 42°C for over 10 minutes not only damages the heart but also stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. This causes increased heart rate and blood pressure, placing greater strain on the heart.Additionally, reduced circulating blood volume and increased blood viscosity due to dehydration heighten the risk of blood clots. This significantly increases susceptibility to myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction. Bathing in outdoor pools during snowy weather is particularly dangerous, bordering on suicidal.
On the other hand, Professor Higashimaru notes that bathing correctly can dilate blood vessels throughout the body—including arteries, veins, and pulmonary circulation—reducing the heart's circulatory load.lower blood pressure, and enhance blood circulation. Moreover, immersion in warm water reduces vascular resistance, lowering blood viscosity and promoting blood flow. This allows the body to absorb more nutrients and oxygen, improving skin metabolism and immunity; it also benefits heart disease treatment.
To prevent falls and drowning during bathing, observe these precautions:
1. Water Temperature: Bathwater should be close to body temperature, ideally 38-41°C (98.6-106°F). Excessively hot water dilates superficial blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the heart and brain, potentially causing oxygen deprivation.
3. Sequence: Face → Body → Hair
During winter, when indoor-outdoor temperature differences are significant, the correct bathing sequence is: face → body → hair.
Most people start by washing their hair first, which is incorrect.In cold weather, after removing clothing and entering the bathroom, blood concentrates in the internal organs and head. Washing the hair immediately may cause poor blood circulation in the head. Over time, this could trigger cerebrovascular diseases.
Therefore, the first step should be washing the face. This is because the body's pores rapidly expand after exposure to hot shower water. Washing the face first prevents excessive dust from entering facial pores and causing blockages.
When washing your body, start by rinsing the limbs—the parts farthest from the heart—first. Once your body adjusts, then rinse your torso.
Save washing your hair for last. This avoids the sudden shift between hot and cold that can shock your brain's blood circulation. Plus, after a period of warm water exposure, your scalp and hair become thoroughly moisturized by the steam, making cleansing easier and promoting scalp health.
Warm up before bathing
Transitioning directly from a cold environment to a hot shower causes the body's blood circulation to rapidly shift from a low to a high level, which may be too much for the elderly or those with cardiovascular conditions. The highest risk periods for fainting during bathing occur immediately after starting a shower in winter and after bathing for over half an hour.Before bathing, engage in light warm-up activities like walking, stretching, or waist twists. Aim for mild warmth without sweating to effectively prevent early-stage fainting.
Three Details Not to Overlook
1. Many modern water heaters display temperature readings. When multiple taps release hot water, the showerhead's actual temperature may be lower than indicated. Adjust accordingly.
2. Avoid locking the bathroom door during showers to facilitate rescue in case of fainting or other emergencies.