A polar bear swim, anyone? Risks and counter-measures.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v8i1.179Keywords:
Cardiac arrhythmias, Gasp reflex, Hypothermia, Ventricular fibrillationAbstract
Objective. Polar bear swims and other activities involving immersion in frigid water are becoming ever-more popular. This brief article traces the origins of such events, assesses the associated risks to health, and suggests appropriate countermeasures.
Methods. Historical information on polar bear swims, Epiphanal "blessing of the waters" and ultra-long distance swimming events was sought on the internet. Data on associated gasp reflexes, ventricular fibrillation, pulmonary oedema,
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Published
2015-01-30
How to Cite
Shephard, R. J. (2015). A polar bear swim, anyone? Risks and counter-measures. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 8(1), 14–21. https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v8i1.179
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