Open-water swimming could potentially be fatal, cardiologists warn

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A recent study links swimming in open water to a lung condition called swim-induced pulmonary edema (SIPE).

The case study reports that the heart and the lungs can be affected by SIPE.

SIPE causes fluid buildup in the lungs and is described by an umbrella term called Immersion Pulmonary Edema (IPE).

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Dr. Jenna Crowe-Riddell

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IPE case studies have been reported since the 1980s. However, the first published evidence of IPE involving myocardial edema – swelling of the heart muscle – was published in 2022.

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According to the case study, a "fit and well female in her fifties" with no previous notable medical history started to hyperventilate while swimming.

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Blood is redirected from the peripheral vascular system to the core, increasing thoracic volume and thereby increasing pressure in the pulmonary vasculature.

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Open-water swimming could potentially be fatal, cardiologists warn

HEALTH

BY AYESHA GULZAR

A recent study links swimming in open water to a lung condition called swim-induced pulmonary edema (SIPE).

HEALTH

The case study reports that the heart and the lungs can be affected by SIPE.

SCIENCE

SIPE causes fluid buildup in the lungs and is described by an umbrella term called Immersion Pulmonary Edema (IPE).

HEALTH

Dr. Jenna Crowe-Riddell

The condition is found in open-water swimmers, scuba divers, snorkelers, military swimmers, and triathletes.

HEALTH

IPE case studies have been reported since the 1980s. However, the first published evidence of IPE involving myocardial edema – swelling of the heart muscle – was published in 2022.

HEALTH

According to the case study, a "fit and well female in her fifties" with no previous notable medical history started to hyperventilate while swimming.

HEALTH

HEALTH

HEALTH

Blood is redirected from the peripheral vascular system to the core, increasing thoracic volume and thereby increasing pressure in the pulmonary vasculature.

HEALTH

More in the article.

HEALTH

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