Both painful and potentially dangerous, a sudden muscle cramp from swimming can strike unexpectedly. No matter the physical status of the person affected, muscle cramps can affect anyone. When muscle cramps become a problem, there are a few things to keep in mind to help deal with them.
Immediate Response
If you get a cramp while you are in the water, get out of the pool. Call over a friend or lifeguard if you need help to lift yourself out of the water while you are having a painful muscle cramp. Massage the area with your hands, and do your best to stretch out the affected limb if the cramping in your arm or leg. Once the cramp has stopped, hold an ice pack over the area for 10 to 15 minutes. If the cramp occurs in your torso, make hydrating yourself a priority before lying down to let your body rest.
Causes for Cramps
Though there are a wide range of factors that can cause cramps from swimming, it may not have had anything to do with your pool activities. Muscle cramping can sometimes be the result of overheating if you were swimming outside in harsh sunlight. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can cause muscles to cramp as well. Vitamin deficiency and even swimming in cold water can all lead to painful cramps.
See Your Doctor
Massaging, stretching and applying an ice pack should be sufficient to eliminate the cramp, but if it persists it's time to seek medical attention. In addition to muscle cramps that simply won't go away, cramps that are severe or cramps that go away and return should be taken seriously. Contact your doctor immediately for advice on how to treat these cramps. Your doctor will more than likely need to see you to get a better idea of what is going on.
Prevent Cramps
While sometimes muscle cramps strike for no rhyme or reason, other times they are the result of things you do have control over. Drink plenty of fluids before going swimming to prevent dehydration. Water and sports drinks can help keep your body cooled and hydrated and also keep your electrolyte balance in check. Stretch before diving into the water or walk around the pool a few times to allow your muscles a chance to warm up. Eating potassium-rich foods such as a banana each day can help prevent painful cramping. Talk to your doctor or a nutritionist about improving your diet to accommodate an active lifestyle.
