A Reader Writes

A reader recently wrote: "Dear, Dr. Silbs, I am writing from my up-turned kayak where the water temp is 45 F. I have been inverted for about 45 seconds. I tried to roll up, however, I have lost the one paddle I had brought along. My symptoms include blue finger tips. My signs include tunnel vision and portions of my life flashing before me. What should I do?" signed, Anoxic.

Dear Anoxic,

You have made several errors. To begin, blue fingers are a sign and not a symptom. The tunnel vision and the life-flash thingy, on the other hand, are both symptoms (I see your signs, you report your symptoms...but I digress...and I understand you are in a hurry for an answer).

I recommend you take 2 paddles and call me in the morning.

Paddle safe...

DS