Re: [Paddlewise] Gasp reflex

From: <Outfit3029_at_aol.com>


> 
>     The "gasp reflex", if I am not mistaken, would be the cause of dry lung 
> drowning.
>   Water, splashed into an open mouth, triggers an involuntary closure of 
> muscles in          the throat. Is this correct?

The gasp reflex is what happens when you hit really cold water.  Your
reaction is to gasp and inhale.  Some say you can avoid it if you
have the presense of mind to realize it's about to happen and
use will power.  Others claim you can prevent it through training.
I have no experience with it - I stay out of _really_ cold water
(though demonstrating a wet exit this past spring in cold water
almost made me forget what I was doing and roll up!)

Mike 


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