Drowning

Drowning is the process of experiencing respiratory impairment from submersion or immersion in liquid, typically water. It can result in death or in survival with varying degrees of injury. Modern terminology uses drowning to describe the event of respiratory impairment, regardless of final outcome; terms like near-drowning are outdated. The pathophysiology involves airway water entry leading to obstruction, hypoxemia, and potential cardiac arrest if rescue and care are delayed.

Signs and recognition: In the water, a person may be unable to call for help, show little movement, keep the face at or near the surface, and may become unresponsive and submerge. After removal, symptoms can include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness.

Risk factors: Young children are at greatest risk; lack of supervision, swimming ability, intoxication, seizure disorders, medical conditions, and proximity to water increase risk. Pool, bathtubs, rivers, and coastal areas all pose risks.

Prevention: Supervision and barriers around water; use of life jackets for at-risk individuals; swimming and water safety education; avoid alcohol or drugs when near water; learn CPR and basic rescue techniques; designate a water watcher.

First aid and treatment: Call emergency services. Remove the person from the water promptly and assess responsiveness and breathing. If there is no pulse or the person is not breathing, begin CPR with chest compressions and rescue breaths as trained. If trained, provide oxygen and monitor for airway obstruction. Seek medical evaluation after any drowning event, even if symptoms seem to resolve.

Prognosis: Outcome depends on submersion duration, depth, water temperature, and promptness of resuscitation. Early intervention reduces the risk of severe brain injury and death.