Dry Drowning in Adults

Most of the time, dry drowning occurs 1 to 24 hours post swimming. It is better if you come to know that a person is suffering from dry drowning early so that you can provide the person with appropriate medication. In very rare case, dry drowning has claimed some lives. Dry drowning basically occurs after a person's lungs are unable to extract the oxygen required for the proper functioning of the body. During dry drowning, little amount of fluid is present in a person's lungs which is in contrast to the belief that lots of fluid is present inside the lungs.

Causes of Dry Drowning

People who have had pneumonia in the past have high chances of being affected with this disease. All those with lung trauma like severe acute respiratory syndrome are also at high risk. Muscular paralysis, excess water reaching the lungs, prolonged exposure to lungs, changes to the oxygen absorbing tissues and if the diaphragm is unable to create respiratory movements can cause dry drowning.

Dry Drowning Symptoms in Adults

The most obvious symptoms are constant coughing and shortness of breath. Painful and shallow breathing are also dry drowning symptoms. If the coughing continues for more than 20 to 30 minutes, it indicates that the water has reached the lungs. Difficulty in breathing even after an hour is a heavy indication of dry drowning in adults. More than 20 respiration per second is also a sign. Some people also complain of pain in the chest. Another most commonly observed symptom of dry drowning is spitting water. Often rubbing of eyes by the victim is also one of the dry drowning symptom in adults. Sudden reduction in energy and extreme tiredness, sudden and abrupt change in the mood and mental status are observed because of dry drowning in adults. The victim appears to be pale and also experiences sweaty skin.

Treating Dry Drowning

The most effective treatment is to increase the supply of oxygen to the lungs. Oxygen can be provided to the victim by means of ventilation. Make sure that you give this treatment to the victim as soon as possible without any delay. It is better to take the victim to a doctor in order to avoid any kind of complications. Give the victim appropriate treatment so that his body temperature remains normal.

Adopting Preventive Measures

All those who cannot swim should not go for swimming alone. People suffering from respiratory or lung problems should also be accompanied by someone so that in case of any problem the victim can be helped. Instances of Dry drowning in adults are lesser as compared to infants. Hence, extra care should be taken of infants like observe them while they are swimming and also keep an eye on them after they are out of the pool.

Dry drowning in adults can get serious in case proper treatment is not followed. In any case prevention is always better than cure. So, take care of yourself and your family. Happy swimming and healthy life!