Swimming-Induced Pulmonary Edema in an Active-Duty Female Triathlete

Abstract

Swimming-induced pulmonary edema (SIPE) is a noncardiogenic form of acute pulmonary edema infrequently described in the general military literature. Its pathophysiology is poorly understood. Treatment is supportive. Knowledge of SIPE is important for the military physician and should remain a top differential for any patient presenting with acute pulmonary edema following a water sport. This is the case of a patient with SIPE occurring during the swim portion of a Half Ironman Triathlon.

Symptom Duration, Recurrence, and Long-Term Effects of Swimming-Induced Pulmonary Edema

“…Previous data on time to recover from SIPE are inconsistent. Most of the reports describe a resolution of SIPE within 24 to 48 h. 7 , 13 , 14 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 This timeframe has occasionally been used to confirm SIPE diagnosis and has even been used as a diagnostic criterion. 13 , 14 , 21 , 26 , 29 However, some have observed symptoms and/or time to recovery for longer than 48 h, even up to 10 days.…”