Many people experiencing illness, especially with respiratory symptoms, often wonder about the benefits of hot showers. There is a common public interest in home remedies to alleviate discomfort and promote recovery. Understanding the scientific basis behind such claims is important for informed decision-making during illness.
Heat’s Impact on the Virus
Hot showers or baths cannot kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus inside the human body or cure COVID-19. The internal temperature required to inactivate it is far too high for the human body to safely tolerate. Temperatures of 56°C for 15-30 minutes, 65°C for 15 minutes, or 95°C for 3 minutes are needed to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 in laboratory settings or on surfaces. Human body temperature, even with a fever, rarely exceeds 40°C or 41°C, which is insufficient to neutralize the virus internally.
While high heat can inactivate the virus outside the body, this principle does not apply to internal infections. The body’s internal temperature regulation prevents extreme changes that would harm human cells and tissues. Therefore, relying on hot showers to eliminate the virus is not an effective strategy.
Soothing Symptoms with Warmth
Despite not being a cure, hot showers can offer symptomatic relief for discomforts associated with COVID-19. Steam from a hot shower helps moisten nasal passages and thin mucus, easing congestion. This reduces irritation in swollen blood vessels within the sinuses, promoting easier breathing.
Warmth from a hot shower can alleviate muscle aches and general body discomfort during viral infections. Heat therapy increases blood flow to affected areas, soothing muscles and improving flexibility. This provides a comforting and relaxing sensation, similar to how warmth is used for common colds or flu.
Safety and Effective Home Care
While hot showers offer comfort, caution is necessary, especially with fever or weakness. High temperatures can increase body temperature, leading to discomfort, sweating, or dizziness. Individuals, particularly the elderly or those with underlying health conditions, should be mindful of lightheadedness or fainting due to weakness or dehydration. Keep showers brief and lukewarm to avoid exacerbating symptoms or drastic temperature changes.
Effective home care for COVID-19 supports the body’s recovery. Rest is important for the immune system to fight infection. Staying hydrated with fluids like water, clear broths, or fruit juices replaces fluids lost from fever and soothes a scratchy throat. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen manage fever, pain, and body aches. Monitor symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen, such as trouble breathing or persistent high fever.