Dizzy triathlete-evidence supporting vestibular etiology

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Physiology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Dizziness is a frequent issue for triathletes, particularly during the swimming segment.
• This symptom can negatively impact athletic performance.
• A potential cause is the caloric response from asymmetrical vestibular organ cooling during cold water immersion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of dizziness in triathletes.
• To explore the link between cold water swimming and dizziness.
• To assess the efficacy of earplugs in mitigating swim-induced dizziness.

Main Methods:

• 125 triathletes completed a questionnaire on dizziness experiences.
• 15 frequently dizzy triathletes underwent a cold water swimming test.
• The test involved two swimming legs: one without earplugs and one with earplugs.
• Eye movements (nystagmus) were recorded post-swim to assess vestibular response.

Main Results:

• 87% of triathletes reported experiencing dizziness, with 97% of those experiencing it during or after swimming.
• Dizziness affected performance in 50% of affected athletes.
• During the cold water test without earplugs, 73% of participants experienced dizziness, often with nystagmus.
• Only one athlete reported dizziness when wearing earplugs during the second swim leg.

Conclusions:

• Dizziness is highly prevalent among triathletes, largely associated with the swimming leg.
• The findings support the hypothesis that asymmetrical vestibular cooling (caloric response) causes swim-induced dizziness.
• Recommending earplug use for triathletes experiencing dizziness during swimming is advised to prevent caloric effects.