General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Salt deficiency ? Rss Feed  
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2014-07-21 9:39 PM

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Subject: Salt deficiency ?
Ok, so I am totally self diagnosing here but maybe someone else (many others?) have had the same issues.

Almost every swim for the past 2-3 weeks I cramp up in the pool, im talking those crazy big toe going in the wrong direction cramp. My other issue is at night when standing up quickly I often get a quick faint dizzy spell.

I realize that this prob isn't enough info to give something in concrete, however does that sound like salt issues? If so, what next (besides the obvious eat salty things). What do others make sure they are getting to get enough salt that obviously wouldn't involve eating chips


2014-07-21 10:54 PM
in reply to: 0

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Subject: RE: Salt deficiency ?
How in shape are you? Are you swimming at your limit most of the time? If you're not in the best of shape or you're always trying hard, then you're going to cramp up...at least until your body gets used to it.

Also, I get light headed when standing up most of the time too and have to grab the counter a lot. My blood pressure normally hovers at 90/50 to 100/60. Just one of the side effects of being in shape. If it gets any lower than that, then I'd talk to my doctor about what steps or meds I would need to take but it's just being physically fit for me, instead of being a medical issue.

Edited by Blastman 2014-07-21 10:54 PM
2014-07-21 11:04 PM
in reply to: Blastman

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Subject: RE: Salt deficiency ?
Id like to think I am in pretty good shape, on avg for the past 6 months or so I have been doing 2-3 Swims, Bikes, Runs a week.

My BP is getting lower, possibly connected to the dizzy spells? was around 110/70 last week.


So, odd (or maybe not) the cramps only happen in the swim, no problems running 5-8 miles a time or biking 25-40 miles a time
2014-07-22 6:12 AM
in reply to: ECS49

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Subject: RE: Salt deficiency ?
For the swim, do you point your toes continually? Ideally you want to leave your ankle relaxed without having to use your calf to point your toes. If your calf is continually engaged, this will often lead to cramps of the lower legs and feet. Another issue on the swim is how you push off the wall; try to put you foot flat on the wall and push as this will often help ward off cramps.

Beyond that, just keep swimming and most likely as fitness improves, the frequency of cramps will decrease.

Shane
2014-07-22 7:41 AM
in reply to: ECS49

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Subject: RE: Salt deficiency ?
Originally posted by ECS49

Ok, so I am totally self diagnosing here but maybe someone else (many others?) have had the same issues.

Almost every swim for the past 2-3 weeks I cramp up in the pool, im talking those crazy big toe going in the wrong direction cramp. My other issue is at night when standing up quickly I often get a quick faint dizzy spell.

I realize that this prob isn't enough info to give something in concrete, however does that sound like salt issues? If so, what next (besides the obvious eat salty things). What do others make sure they are getting to get enough salt that obviously wouldn't involve eating chips



ECS - can only comment about the dizzy spells. When I first started training, I had the same problem, but I actually passed out twice. I went to a number of doctors and essentially was told I needed to drink more water. I'm a heavy sweater and I was not replacing enough fluids during the day. Once I started doing that, the problem went away. Occasionally, it will creep back, but if I increase my water intake, its controlled.
2014-07-22 10:54 AM
in reply to: Blastman


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Subject: RE: Salt deficiency ?
I eat about 1/2 T of table salt each morning per the advice of my cardiologist. It made a huge difference in my lightheadedness/dizziness/fainting.

I can skip for a while (like weeks) but then it starts to come back again. When I am less active (and I'm not fit or terribly active!) I still get dizzy when I skip, so I'm not sure where all that salt is going.


2014-07-22 11:07 AM
in reply to: Quigley

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Subject: RE: Salt deficiency ?
The sweat/water would also make sense. I sweat alot when working out, especially if it is humid. I really prob need to take in more water
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