Drowning happens when a person is underwater and breathes water into the lungs. A drowning that doesn't result in death is often called a nonfatal drowning.
When a person drowns, the airway (larynx) can spasm and close, or water can damage the lungs and keep them from taking in oxygen. In either case, the lungs can't supply oxygen to the body. This can be deadly.
Going without oxygen has a rapid effect on the body.
Right after a nonfatal drowning, a person may:
Even a little water in the lungs can cause serious lung problems in the next hours or days. Emergency medical care is critical after a person survives a drowning.
Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if a drowning victim has:
Call a doctor now if a recent drowning victim has new breathing problems or signs of a lung infection, such as:
Current as of: August 6, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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