I have been wild swimming for around 6 or 7 years – a mixture of Summer & Winter, wetsuit & costume, Lakes, rivers & sea.
I think I am a sensible swimmer, I respect the water and understand (I thought) cold water effects. Last week I went for an early morning short dip with a friend (never alone) Costume with boots & gloves and compulsory bobble hat! We stayed in for 8 minutes – slightly shortly than usual as it was minus 1.
I got out, put my robe on, walked to the car, felt fine. Started to dress then got the most overwhelming feeling of nausea – all I wanted to do was lay down. My quick thinking friend finished dressing me, put me in her car, put the heaters on, gave me a hot water bottle & talked to me continuously. Right there & then, I couldn’t think straight, I knew I didn’t feel like me, with a fast paced heartbeat & irregular breathing. Kerry decided to drive towards Pooley bridge in the hope of getting a signal to ‘google’ symptoms. (although I secretly think she was thinking of driving me to hospital) As it happened, we pulled over to get some water from the boot as I was unbelievably thirsty. I had a drink and the awful feeling passed as quickly as it had appeared.
It was a scary experience.
It can happen to anyone.
Often with absolutely ZERO warning.
I have since researched the symptoms and think it must have been a case of After Drop – the Outdoor Swimming Society has some great FREE information and guidance.
I especially thought the UMBLES was a really great way to monitor symptoms
Grumble – complain of not feeling well
Stumble – dizziness causing instability
Fumble – can’t work hands properly, doing up zips etc
Mumble – slurred speech or not making sense
Pilates Deb 