As summer kicks into full gear, families everywhere are heading to the beach, lake and pool for some summer sun and fun. And while delayed drowning is rare, it is important to know about delayed drowning symptoms so you can be on the lookout.
What is delayed drowning?
Did you know there are many different types of drowning? Neither delayed drowning nor the related term secondary drowning is an actual medical term. These situations fall under something called a submersion injury.
Delayed or secondary drowning happens when water gets into the lungs and irritates the lining of the lungs. From there, fluid builds up and can cause pulmonary edema. In this scenario, you would experience breathing difficulties almost immediately, and the signs would get worse over the course of several hours. It also has the potential to accelerate a person’s oxygen depletion. Understanding the distinction between dry drowning and secondary drowning is crucial because dry drowning is another submersion injury that can occur. Dry drowning is when water is inhaled through the mouth or nose and causes the vocal cords to spasm and close up. When this happens, it can close off the airways completely, making it hard or impossible to breathe.
If someone you know is showing signs of delayed or dry drowning, don’t wait. Right away, go to the nearest emergency room. What are delayed drowning symptoms?
Regardless of how much water is taken in, delayed drowning can occur. As a result, it’s critical to look for delayed drowning symptoms after you’ve finished swimming or any other water-based activity. The following are some of the symptoms of delayed drowning: Sudden and persistent coughing
Lack of energy persistent coughing that results in vomiting difficulty breathing or hard breathing How much time can symptoms last? Delayed drowning symptoms would start right away or within a few hours – they wouldn’t happen randomly days later. A good rule of thumb is to look out for delayed drowning symptoms right after water activity and then for up to 24 hours afterward.
You should immediately go to the emergency room if you notice any breathing difficulties, coughing, or shortness of breath. Those are symptoms that need immediate attention and care.
How do I know if my child has water in their lungs?
You will undoubtedly observe the signs and symptoms. There will be persistent coughing, drowsiness, and difficulty breathing within a few hours of any incident. After getting out of the water, it’s a good idea to be aware of these symptoms to keep yourself safe. There is no need to panic if neither you nor your child experiences an incident in the water where fluid is inhaled but no symptoms are displayed. How do I prevent delayed drowning?
Luckily, delayed drowning is very preventable with some simple water safety tips.
The following rules can help in preventing drowning as well as delayed drowning:
Ensure that all water sports are supervised or that a lifeguard is present. Never swim by yourself. Understand and adjust to the environment of the water, like currents, water temperature or hazards
Learn CPR
Wear life jackets when possible
Use flotation devices appropriate for your age. Get your kids in swimming lessons early
How we can help
When you’re playing in the water this summer, it’s important to remain vigilant during any activities that may cause a drowning incident or complications. Simple water safety and knowing CPR can go a long way.
If you do observe someone showing delayed drowning symptoms, head to the emergency department immediately.
