7 Showering Tips for Managing Dysautonomia Symptoms

For those with dysautonomia, something as routine as showering can be exhausting and even dangerous. The combination of heat, standing, and exertion can lead to dizziness, tachycardia, and even fainting. But with the right strategies, you can make showering a safer and more comfortable experience. Here are seven showering tips to help manage symptoms while keeping clean.

1. Use Tools That Adapt to You

Standing for long periods can be difficult, so adapting your shower setup can make a huge difference. Consider using:

• A shower chair to reduce the risk of fainting and allow you to sit while showering.

• A removable shower head to direct water where needed without excessive movement.

• Handrails for additional support and safety.

These tools can help conserve energy and prevent falls, making showers much more manageable. 

2. Keep Showers Lukewarm or Cool

Hot showers can worsen dysautonomia symptoms by increasing vasodilation, leading to a drop in blood pressure and dizziness. Instead:

• Start with lukewarm water and gradually lower the temperature to help your body adjust.

• If tolerable, end with a cool rinse to improve circulation and reduce overheating.

Cooler showers can help prevent symptom flares and leave you feeling more refreshed instead of drained.

3. Try a Sink Bath on Tough Days

On days when standing or even sitting in the shower is too much, a sink bath can be a great alternative. Focus on washing essential areas (pits, privates, and face - not necessarily in that order!) using a washcloth and mild soap.

While not a full shower, a quick sink bath can help maintain hygiene without overexerting yourself.

4. Minimize Arm Lifting – Skip Hair Washing When Possible

Lifting your arms over your head can make symptoms worse by increasing heart rate and reducing blood flow to the brain.

• Stretch out hair-washing days as long as possible.

• Try a dry shampoo or use a shower chair to make hair washing easier.

• If you must wash your hair, consider leaning forward to keep your head down instead of lifting your arms up. This should only be done with caution while seated.

5. Reduce Steam – Keep the Bathroom Cool

Steam can trigger vasodilation and overheating, making symptoms worse. To reduce steam buildup:

• Keep the bathroom door open to allow airflow.

• Run an exhaust fan to remove heat and moisture.
  

These small changes can make a big difference in preventing post-shower fatigue.

6. Time Your Shower Wisely

Symptoms often fluctuate throughout the day, so timing your shower can help prevent crashes. Try to:

• Shower during your best time of day (e.g., when you're less symptomatic).

• Avoid showering right after eating, as digestion can divert blood flow away from the brain.

• Plan time to rest after showering if needed.

Adjusting your routine to work with your body's natural rhythm can make showering more manageable.

7. Hydrate Before, During, and After

Hydration is key to preventing symptom flares from showering. Many people with dysautonomia find that drinking electrolytes before or after their shower helps. Some even bring a drink into the bathroom to sip mid-shower! Now that's commitment!

Drinking NormaLyte beforehand can help maintain blood volume and prevent dizziness or tachycardia triggered by warm water. NormaLyte’s Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is scientifically formulated to provide rapid hydration, making it an excellent choice for managing dysautonomia-related dehydration.

Final Thoughts

Showering with dysautonomia can be challenging, but modifying your routine with these simple adaptations can help reduce symptoms and make hygiene more manageable. By staying cool, using supportive tools, and prioritizing hydration, you can take control of your shower experience without the dreaded post-shower crash.

Do you have any showering tips that help manage your symptoms? Share your experiences in the comments below!