Bottom Line: Swimming-Induced Pulmonary Edema (SIPE) AKA Immersion Pulmonary Edema is a rare, though life-threatening pathology associated with water-based activities, especially among athletes or military personnel. Caused by physiologic effects of immersion, not from aspiration/ingestion. Consider in any patient with respiratory distress or chest discomfort onset during water activities such as swimming, diving, etc. Diagnose with physical exam and POCUS. Manage supportively, potentially including positive pressure ventilation. Screen for alternative diagnoses.
See the link for more thorough review of assessment diagnostics, pathophysiology, pharmacological options, risk factors, and long-term considerations.
Steins H. Swimming-Induced Pulmonary Edema: A Scoping Review and Analysis of Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Diagnostics, Management, and Implications for Resource-Limited Care of Patients. Wilderness & Environmental Medicine. 2026;0(0). doi:10.1177/10806032251414379
