'autonomic Conflict': Cardiac Arrhythmias During Cold-water Immersion
Can Cold Water Immersion Cause Dangerous Heart Rhythms?
Yes. Cold water submersion can trigger a high rate of heart rhythm problems, even in healthy people. When you plunge into cold water while holding your breath, two opposite reflexes fight for control of your heart. Researchers call this “autonomic conflict” and it may explain some mysterious drowning deaths.
Internationally, about half a million immersion-related deaths occur each year. Here’s a puzzling statistic: 67% of drownings happen to strong swimmers, and 55% of these occur within 3 meters of safety. This review proposes that dangerous heart rhythms, not hypothermia or inability to swim, may be responsible for many of these deaths.