Cold Showers Do Not Cause Strokes or Heart Disease, Russian Cardiologist Says

New Delhi, Oct. 18, 2025 Cold showers have become popular for their health benefits, such as improving circulation, enhancing skin appearance, and increasing mental focus and clarity. However, a viral claim suggesting that cold morning showers cause strokes in young men is false, according to Russian cardiologist Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, who specializes in heart failure and heart transplantation. A video claiming that cold showers are responsible for 74 percent of strokes in young men recently circulated online. Dr. Yaranov addressed this misinformation in an Instagram video on October 18, stating that the claim is not true. He explained that strokes and heart attacks are more likely in the early morning hours, between 6 and 9 a.m., because blood pressure and clotting activity naturally rise during this time. This natural physiological pattern, not cold showers, explains why heart incidents occur more often in the morning. Dr. Yaranov also noted that sudden exposure to cold water can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure and heart rate. This effect may be significant for people with hypertension, vascular disease, or weak cardiovascular health. For most healthy individuals, however, cold showers do not damage blood vessels or cause strokes. Strokes are caused by issues such as blockages, ruptures, or other cardiovascular problems, and not by exposure to cold water. The key message from Dr. Yaranov is that cold showers are generally safe for healthy people. He emphasized the importance of being aware of personal health conditions. Individuals over 40, or those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, should exercise caution before taking cold showers or participating in extreme cold-water challenges early in the morning. Consulting a doctor is recommended to ensure personal safety. Cold showers can provide several advantages when done safely. Many people report increased alertness and focus, improved circulation, and better skin tone. The routine can also be energizing and refreshing. Dr. Yaranov suggested that fear of cold water should not prevent people from enjoying these benefits. Instead, individuals should respect their cardiovascular system and consider their health status before engaging in extreme cold exposure. In summary, cold showers do not cause strokes or heart disease for most healthy people. The viral claims linking them to sudden cardiac events in young men are untrue and lack scientific evidence. Strokes and heart attacks are influenced by underlying health conditions, natural physiological patterns, and lifestyle factors, rather than a brief exposure to cold water. Dr. Yaranov’s advice encourages people to focus on education, awareness, and safe practices rather than being influenced by sensational online claims. Overall, cold showers remain a healthy practice for many, offering physical and mental benefits. People with certain health risks should take precautions, but for the majority, the popular wellness routine is safe and beneficial, without increasing the risk of stroke or heart disease. Cold Showers Safe for Most People, Do Not Cause Strokes Cold showers are popular for boosting circulation, skin health, and mental focus, but a viral claim linking them to strokes in young men is false, says Russian cardiologist Dr. Dmitry Yaranov. He explains that early mornings naturally see higher blood pressure and clotting, which is why strokes and heart attacks are more common then, not because of cold showers. Sudden cold exposure may briefly raise heart rate and blood pressure, especially in people with heart conditions, but healthy individuals are safe. Cold showers can be energizing and beneficial when done responsibly.