Kevin P. wrote:
Humans have what is called the mammalian reflex to cold water against the face (specifically the face). It is present in water temps up to about 69 degrees but the reflex is more severe the colder the water gets. The reflex will slow HR in humans between 10-25% when cold water hits the face. This accounts for our inability to breathe normally AND the inability to get necessary oxygen under stress of a race start without prior exposure. Imagine your HR slowing by 25% right when you need oxygen. You may see a 50% drop. Little wonder we may panic and gasp. SOLUTION:
Just dunking your limbs will no stop the reflex. You have to submerge your face in a warm up if possible. At a minimum, throw cold water on it for a few minutes to stop the slowing of the heart. I suggest you get on the race course where possible, get your face in the water until this reaction is gone. Once it is gone start swimming and use some brisk efforts to raise your HR. Get cold water in your wettie suit so that your body can warm it up when you get out pre-race, then exit the water and wait. Five minutes is enough time on shore to warm the water in your suit, preserve core temps and still over come the reflex. On swim start you will have no or lesser reflex issues. Without the reflex you will be okay missing a breath or two early in the swim without panic attack.
Sounds like the death was not due to the reflux as the water was relatively warm.
I totally agree in cold water swims. At Oceanside, where you can only get in when the prior AG gun goes off, I walk down the ramp as deep as they'll let me prior to that gun, usually thigh deep, and crouch down and get as much water on my face and in my wetsuit. Do that for 3 minutes, and when they finally let us in I've never felt cold or had that reaction. I think it's very important. But not always possible (Alcatraz)