sea swimming

[Ninjacat]

hi all - what are your views on cold water swimming with heart problems? In my case particularly ectopics and SVT? It’s just that I have found this and I absolutely love it. For me, mentally it is wonderful, however I have read conflicting articles on whether you should or shouldn’t if you have heart problems? Just wondered what you all thought?

thanks for reading

[Hidden]

With the caveat that I’m not medically qualified, and proper advice should always be sought with any query like this.

Ectopics are generally considered an adrenaline mediated phenomenon, meaning that they’re often triggered or increased by the release of adrenaline, which is why things like caffeine and stress can be factors for those that have them. We know that episodes of SVT (and AF) are triggered by ectopics, so the more ectopics you have, the higher the chances of an episode of arrhythmia. Beta blockers are given to those with SVT and AF specifically because they block the release of adrenaline, thus theoretically reducing ectopics and keeping heart rate lower. My understanding is that submersion in cold water results in guaranteed adrenaline release, so could potentially result in an increase in ectopics, which could result in episodes of SVT. Cold water triggers the sympathetic nervous system, which is what governs fight or flight. If you were already in SVT, though, cold water may restore normal heart rate, although the medics recommend submerging your face rather than your whole body. There are risks associated with cold water submersion even for those without a known cardiac issue, so care and caution should generally be taken with this kind of activity, regardless of SVT.

[Ninjacat in reply to Hidden]

Thank you appreciated

[Czech_Mate]

Hi

I'm also interested in any feedback on this. It's a bit far from the sea here but I have a cold shower for about a minute on waking up in the morning. It definitely makes me feel physically and mentally better to face the day. The rub down with a towel after the shower is part of it for me.

I'll mention it at the next check up with the cardio next month to see what reaction I get.



[Anon2023]

hi. It’s brilliant that you have found something that you enjoy so much. Perhaps have a word with your cardiologist or gp and ask their opinion on any risks. I’d be interested in what they say and hope that it’s positive. Good luck.

[Ninjacat in reply to Anon2023]

thanks Anon - I’ll post here when I’ve been to clinic 😊👍🏻

[Anon2023 in reply to Ninjacat]

thanks. I hope you get good news. I’m going to have a dip in the pacific next week but the temperature will be about 22. Not too risky other than the sharks!!

[Ninjacat in reply to Anon2023]

🤣👍🏻