Should I Take a Shower If I Have COVID?
My wife and I had both tested positive for COVID. Her symptoms began a day before mine. I was afraid that I would get sick like she had. Her symptoms were severe, and I was not looking forward to repetitive vomiting and headaches so intense that she felt like she was hit by a truck. I didn’t sleep much that night. I kept listening to every little cough my body made. I kept thinking I felt something, but I didn’t. If I did, I might as well kiss my last peaceful moments goodbye. I did, however, realize I was sweating. I wanted to take a shower, but I was not sure if I should.
Do you take a shower if you feel sick? I always do. I feel like showers can cure everything. If I am sick, I want to take a shower. If I’m stressed, I take a shower. Going to the beach? I’ll take five showers. I have never questioned taking a shower when sick. My grandmother was a nurse and always told me, “If you don’t want to spread your sickness, wash your hands and wash your body.” So I always take a shower when I’m sick. I feel much better after a shower. It makes me feel more relaxed and clean. And I hope it will help me get better faster. Also, the steam helps.
The Power of Steam
Steam is a form of water vapor that is created when water is heated to its boiling point. When you take a hot shower, the steam fills the bathroom and creates a moist environment. This moist environment can help to soothe your sore throat, relieve nasal congestion, and loosen mucus. The steam can also help to open up your airways, making it easier to breathe. In addition, the heat from the shower can help to relax your muscles and reduce body aches.
Some studies have even shown that taking a hot shower may help to reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms. One study, published in the journal Chest, found that people who took a hot shower or bath at the first sign of a cold or flu were less likely to develop severe symptoms, such as fever, chills, and muscle aches. Another study, published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, found that taking a hot shower or bath may help to reduce the duration of cold and flu symptoms. The study participants who took a hot shower or bath had symptoms that lasted an average of 1.5 days shorter than the participants who did not take a hot shower or bath.
Additional Benefits of Showering When Sick
In addition to the benefits listed above, taking a shower when you are sick can also help to:
- Improve your sleep
- Boost your mood
- Reduce stress
- Increase your energy levels
- Soothe your skin
When to Avoid Showering When Sick
There are a few cases when you should avoid showering when you are sick. These include:
- If you have a fever
- If you are feeling weak or dizzy
- If you have open wounds
- If you have a cold or flu with severe nasal congestion
If you are unsure whether or not you should take a shower when you are sick, it is always best to consult with your doctor.
Conclusion
So, should you take a shower if you have COVID? The answer is yes, as long as you do not have any of the conditions listed above that would make it unsafe to do so. Taking a hot shower can help to relieve your symptoms, improve your sleep, boost your mood, reduce stress, increase your energy levels, and soothe your skin. Just be sure to take precautions to avoid spreading your illness to others, such as washing your hands thoroughly before and after showering, and using a clean towel.
Taking a shower is a great way to feel better when you are sick. It can help to relieve your symptoms and improve your overall health. So next time you are feeling under the weather, take a hot shower and see how it makes you feel.
Are you interested in learning more about showers and their health benefits? Check out the links below.
- WebMD: Showers for Cold and Flu
- Healthline: Can a Shower Help Cold and Flu Symptoms?
- Real Simple: 8 Benefits of Showering
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take a shower if I have a fever?
A: No, you should not take a shower if you have a fever. A fever can make you feel weak and dizzy, and taking a shower could make you even more dehydrated.
Q: Can I take a shower if I have a cold or flu with severe nasal congestion?
A: No, you should not take a shower if you have a cold or flu with severe nasal congestion. The steam from the shower can make your nasal congestion worse and make it difficult to breathe.
Q: How long should I shower for?
A: You should shower for as long as you need to feel clean and refreshed. Most people shower for 5-10 minutes. However, if you are sick, you may want to shower for a little longer to help relieve your symptoms.
Q: What temperature should the water be?
A: The water should be warm, but not too hot. Hot water can dry out your skin and make your symptoms worse. Lukewarm water is ideal.
Q: Should I use soap?
A: Yes, you should use soap to wash your body. Soap will help to remove dirt and bacteria from your skin. However, avoid using harsh soaps that can irritate your skin.
