Dangers of Seizures During Bathing Warned by Health Experts in Kamchatka
In the vast and picturesque landscapes of Kamchatka, Russia, swimming can be a delightful experience, but it's essential to be aware of potential risks. One of the main concerns is experiencing convulsions while swimming, which can lead to drowning, injury, or respiratory complications.
Healthcare specialists in Kamchatka have warned about the risks associated with convulsions while swimming, emphasising that loss of consciousness can increase the risk of drowning, especially in murky water where it might be difficult to locate someone having a seizure. Falling or being submerged during a seizure can cause injuries, such as head trauma or spinal injuries, and aspiration of water during a seizure can lead to respiratory issues.
To mitigate these risks, prevention strategies are crucial. Swimming with a buddy is essential, as they can provide immediate assistance if a seizure occurs. For those with uncontrolled seizures, using a life jacket that keeps the face up can significantly reduce the risk of drowning. Keeping a seizure diary to identify triggers and avoiding known triggers such as lack of sleep, stress, and alcohol is also important. Wearing medical alert jewelry can help others quickly identify a medical emergency.
In the event of a seizure, emergency response planning is key. Creating a plan with local emergency services and swimming companions on how to respond is crucial. Ensuring you have a way to quickly reach medical facilities if needed is also important. Basic first aid training, including CPR and seizure management, is beneficial for companions. In areas far from medical facilities, having a portable emergency kit with essentials like a first aid manual and communication devices is crucial.
When it comes to cramps, Danilov, a doctor anesthesiologist-reanimatologist, has advised increasing fluid intake to prevent cramps before swimming in open water. If a cramp occurs, such as in the hand muscles, Danilov suggests gently squeezing and releasing the fingers. If the shore is far away, it is recommended to adopt a float position. It is recommended to try to massage the cramped muscle when far from the shore, but staying calm is the most important thing in an unexpected situation.
Survival specialists confirm that an acupuncture needle can help relieve a cramp, but staying calm is the most important thing in an unexpected situation. Prolonged exposure to hot water can also pose risks, according to Danilov. Swimming while intoxicated in thermal springs can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis), stroke, heart attack, fainting, and other conditions requiring immediate intervention from emergency services.
By taking these precautions, individuals with seizure disorders and those prone to cramps can enjoy swimming while minimising the risks associated with convulsions and cramps in Kamchatka, Russia. It's always important to remember that safety comes first, especially when venturing into open waters.
- In light of the potential risks associated with convulsions and cramps while swimming, individuals in Kamchatka should develop a comprehensive emergency response plan to ensure immediate aid and swift access to medical facilities.
- In the pursuit of health and wellness, people with chronic diseases like seizure disorders and those susceptible to cramps can still enjoy swimming in Kamchatka, but it's crucial to implement preventive measures such as swimming with a buddy, using a life jacket, maintaining a seizure diary, wearing medical alert jewelry, creating an emergency plan, and receiving basic first aid training.
