Can cold showers cause strokes? Russian cardiologist clarifies the viral claim

Health risks of cold water shower: If you’re over 40, have high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, maybe skip the ice-bucket challenges at 7 a.m. until your doctor clears it, the expert suggested (Image: Pexels)

Cold showers are often considered beneficial for improving immunity against common colds, enhancing blood circulation, and reducing muscle soreness and inflammation, among others. However, a Norwegian cardiologist recently claimed that “cold morning showers” cause 74 percent of strokes in young men.

Dr Dmitry Yaranov, an expert in heart failure and heart transplantation, took to his Instagram account and shared facts proving that the claim is not true. He also urged people to look into science rather than give in to fear, and to educate themselves rather than let viral content cause misunderstanding.

Who is at risk?

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A post shared by Dmitry Yaranov, MD | Cardiologist 🫀 (@heart_transplant_doc)

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He explained the potential timing of strokes and their correlation with those considered to be at high risk but added that it’s not the same for healthy people.

• Early morning hours (6–9 am) are when blood pressure and clotting activity naturally rise — that’s why strokes and heart attacks are more common then.
• Sudden cold exposure can cause a reflex spike in blood pressure and heart rate, especially in people with hypertension, vascular disease, or poor cardiovascular conditioning.
• But for most healthy people, cold showersdon’t “tear vessels.” That’s not how strokes work.

He added, “Don’t fear cold water — respect your cardiovascular system. If you’re over 40, have high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease — maybe skip the ice-bucket challenges at 7 a.m. until your doctor clears it.”

While cold morning showers may be up for debate, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov recently shared how banya sauna is a part of his fitness rituals, especially when it comes to building mental strength and endurance.

He said, “Banya is an extreme kind of sauna practiced by Eastern Europeans. It is done in a way that maximises heat, uses herbs and branches, and is a much more holistic and natural experience.” This is traditionally followed by a plunge into cold water.

“Maybe in the moment it’s not always pleasant, especially when you go to extreme temperatures. I don’t always feel great, but the feeling passes. It’s only a few minutes. Same with ice baths — you have to suffer a bit, and then you feel great for hours or even days afterward. What’s more, it gives you long-term health benefits,” he shared from his experience.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.