Overview

• Exposing overheated skin to cold water causes blood vessels to constrict, trapping core heat instead of dispersing it.
• The cold shock response from sudden temperature drops spikes blood pressure and heart rate as the heart pumps against constricted vessels.
• People experiencing symptoms like gasping, dizziness or rapid heartbeat during a cold shower should stop immediately and warm up.
• Experts recommend gentler approaches such as lukewarm showers, staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine or alcohol to prevent dehydration.
• For more effective cooling, aim one fan out a window and another inward to create a cross-breeze that draws in cooler air.