Is it good to shower if you feel sick?

October 2, 2025 •

3 min read

Though often debated, showering while sick can be beneficial, particularly with congestion. Taking a lukewarm shower, rather than hot or cold, is often the safest and most comfortable option when you feel sick.

Quick Summary

Taking a lukewarm shower can be beneficial for alleviating some symptoms like congestion and body aches, but it is important to listen to your body and avoid it if you feel dizzy, weak, or have a high fever. The water temperature and duration matter greatly to ensure comfort and safety.

Key Points

Lukewarm is best: Avoid extreme temperatures (very hot or cold) to prevent shocking your system and using up energy needed for recovery.
Steam helps congestion: The steam from a warm shower can help clear stuffy nasal passages and loosen chest mucus.
Relax sore muscles: The warmth of the water can help relax tense muscles and ease body aches.
Prioritize safety: Avoid showering if you feel dizzy, weak, or have a high fever (over 103°F) to prevent falls.
Sponge baths are an option: If you lack the energy for a full shower, a sponge bath with lukewarm water can help you stay clean and comfortable.
Hydrate afterwards: Drink plenty of water or electrolyte fluids after your shower, as sweating can cause dehydration.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel and adjust your approach accordingly, taking it easy and resting as needed.

Showering When You Have a Cold or Flu

When you're dealing with a common cold, the flu, or other similar viruses, symptoms like congestion, body aches, and fatigue are common. A well-timed shower can provide relief for these specific issues. The steam from a warm shower can act as a natural decongestant, helping to loosen mucus in your nasal passages and chest. Additionally, the warmth can help relax tense muscles and soothe body aches. For many, simply feeling clean can provide a mental boost and a sense of well-being, which is important for recovery.

The Importance of Water Temperature

Choosing the right water temperature is crucial when you are sick. Opting for lukewarm water is the safest and most beneficial approach for most people. Lukewarm water can help you relax and feel refreshed without causing your body to overheat or shiver. Extreme temperatures can shock your system, which is the last thing your body needs when it's already fighting an infection. A hot shower can increase your core body temperature and potentially exacerbate a fever, while a cold shower can trigger shivering, which also uses up valuable energy.

When to Avoid Showering

While a shower can be helpful, there are situations where you should avoid it entirely. If you feel dizzy, extremely weak, or unstable on your feet, it's best to stay out of the shower to prevent a fall. A severe fever, typically defined as over 103°F (39.4°C), is another clear sign to avoid a shower. In these cases, your body is already working hard to regulate its temperature, and a shower could interfere with this process. If you are experiencing these severe symptoms, a sponge bath with lukewarm water might be a safer option, as it allows you to stay clean without the risk of fainting or overheating.

Comparison: Shower vs. Sponge Bath

Choosing between a full shower and a sponge bath depends on your specific symptoms and energy levels. Below is a helpful comparison to guide your decision.


Feature	Full Shower	Sponge Bath
Convenience	Can be difficult if feeling dizzy or weak.	Easier to perform when energy is low or balance is compromised.
Symptom Relief	Effective for clearing congestion with steam.	Minimal benefit for respiratory symptoms like congestion.
Energy Expenditure	Requires more energy to stand and wash.	Uses minimal energy, ideal for extreme fatigue.
Temperature Control	Lukewarm temperature is recommended for safety.	Easy to control water temperature and avoid shocking the system.
Fall Risk	Higher risk, especially with dizziness or weakness.	Virtually no risk of falling.
Full-Body Clean	Provides a complete wash and refreshing feeling.	Cleans targeted areas, but still promotes hygiene.

Staying Hydrated and Resting Afterwards

After taking a lukewarm shower, it is important to stay hydrated and rest. Dehydration can occur with fever and sweating, so replenishing fluids with water, broth, or electrolyte drinks is essential. Take a nap or relax in a comfortable environment to allow your body to focus on healing. Dress in light, breathable clothing to help regulate your body temperature. Avoid heavy blankets or excessively warm clothing, which can cause you to overheat.

Showering for Specific Illnesses

Your illness might dictate your shower strategy. For example, if you have a respiratory infection causing a cough and chest congestion, a steamy, lukewarm shower is particularly beneficial due to its mucus-loosening effects. If your illness causes extreme fatigue, you may want to opt for a short, quick shower or a sponge bath. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly. For more in-depth information about managing various health conditions, you can consult reliable sources like the Cleveland Clinic: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/.

Conclusion

While the idea of showering when sick is often questioned, it can be a valuable tool for managing symptoms and promoting a sense of well-being. By choosing a lukewarm temperature, keeping it brief, and prioritizing safety, you can often find comfort and relief. The key is to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself when you feel too weak or dizzy. Remember to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest, as these are fundamental to a speedy recovery. Always consult a healthcare provider for severe or persistent symptoms to ensure proper medical care.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is not recommended to take a hot shower with a severe fever, as it can interfere with your body's temperature regulation and potentially make you feel worse. A lukewarm sponge bath is a safer alternative.

No, taking a shower doesn't make you sicker. The myth likely stems from feeling a bit chilled after a shower, but the illness itself is caused by a virus, not the water. The key is to dry off quickly and stay warm afterward.

For most people, a lukewarm shower is the best option. A very hot shower can raise your body temperature and potentially worsen a fever, while a cold shower can cause shivering and use up precious energy.

Yes, a steamy shower can be very effective for congestion. The warm, moist air helps to loosen mucus and clear your nasal passages, providing temporary relief from stuffiness.

If you feel dizzy or weak, you should not take a full shower due to the risk of falling. Instead, opt for a quick sponge bath while seated to maintain hygiene without straining your body.

Keep your shower short, ideally between 5 to 10 minutes. A shorter duration minimizes energy expenditure and prevents your body from getting too exhausted.

A shower is often preferable to a bath when sick, as it's quicker and requires less energy. A bath can also cause your body temperature to fluctuate more dramatically, especially if you have a fever.