Explain The Physiological Effects On The Human Body And The Response Of The Major Body Systems To Physical Activity After Cold Water Immersion.

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ay. This meant there would be no chance of the temperature rising from the sun.

As the boat capsized the first reaction of the body as the water hit it was to go into shock, rendering the author unable to move for the first few seconds underwater. Once this initial reaction had passed the author was then able to recall the procedure to follow in the event of a capsize. However, movements were slower than usual and hands were not able to grip the tie on the spray deck to pull it off in order to get out of the cockpit. This inevitably led to panic as by this point the author had been underwater for quite some time and could not get out of the boat leading to gasping and taking in water. The struggle at this point had pulled off the spray deck allowing escape to the surface where coughing ensued.

After swimming to the bank the chill of the wind made it impossible to grasp the boat and paddle from the river and so help was needed from other members of the group. Once this was completed wet clothes were disposed of and dry thermals and layers were used to heat up the body. However, sitting on the bank of the river made warming up very difficult and different methods were tried to aid this, including running on the spot and also keeping very still curled up to retain body heat.

Respiratory Responses to Cold
When breathing normally the respiratory tract acts to warm the air breathed before it reaches the bronchi. McArdle et al (1991, p574) explain that air which is inhaled is capable of retaining more moisture to a point at which humidification occurs drawing water away from the respiratory passages. This results in an excess of water and heat being lost from the respiratory tract, worsened through exercise. Although this condition is not life threatening it can be very uncomfortable, especially if already over exposed to the cold and water immersion. Effects of this humidification include general dehydration, dryness of t...