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General health

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Original poster

Fainting in swimming pool

10 replies

Jeaner · 03/12/2023 21:22

Hi there , I am a beginner swimmer , started late in life and look forward to my lessons .
However, I fainted four times during lessons in the last few months .

I don’t know what the cause of it is as I am healthy otherwise . Have made a referral to look into but I’m curious to know has this happened to anyone else out there …
Thank you

OP posts:

Xrayjaguar · 04/12/2023 00:24

Is it only when you go underwater?

Original poster

Jeaner · 04/12/2023 05:58

When I am on my back I get very light headed and the pool was freezing yesterday.I think sometimes my heart is racing when I’m on my back but I am determined not too give up on swimming bet I want to do it for my own health

OP posts:

Scarydinosaurs · 04/12/2023 06:01

Do you also get light headed doing other cardio like running?

Have you had low blood sugar when you’ve fainted? Or been awake a long time? Any common factors for the episodes?

SutWytTi · 04/12/2023 06:05

Possibly you get cold, which causes a temporary drop in blood pressure.

You shouldn't swim again until you've seen a doctor.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/when-should-you-worry-about-fainting

A mature woman with her eyes closed and her hand on her forehead.

When should you worry about fainting? - Harvard Health

While the cause of fainting often is something minor, fainting also can be a sign of a serious underlying medical problem. ...

https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/when-should-you-worry-about-fainting

greenacrylicpaint · 04/12/2023 06:07

you need to see your gp.
she needs to listen to your heart and possibly refer you for an ecg.

also look up vasovagal syncope (the body's reaction to a change in blood pressure).

it's not normal and frankly dangerous to faint in water.

flowerchild2000 · 04/12/2023 06:13

I have fainted countless times and still don't know the cause, but never in water. I agree it's best to see a doctor. I have been to a cardiologist and neurologist for mine. I could list the numerous things it could be as I've been tested for them all, but it's too much for a comment. Better to see a doctor and delay your lessons until you know something.

MrsFloof · 04/12/2023 06:35

I would see a GP for tests but it could be anxiety especially as you are learning to swim and say heart is racing.

WorriedMillie · 04/12/2023 06:50

It does sounds like a vasovagal thing (with it happening in that position), but definitely get it checked out

lmjfu · 04/12/2023 08:22

Please see your gp and ask for a referral to cardiology. Fainting during exercise, particularly swimming can be a symptom of a potentially serious electrical heart problem. Don't go swimming until you've been checked

CountryStore · 04/12/2023 08:31

I get dizzy when cold water goes in my ears. Could it be that if it's only happening when you're on your back?

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