Drowning Accident Prevention in Columbus, Ohio: Signs of Dry Drowning and Secondary Drowning

Children under age four are at the greatest risk of drowning. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 30% of unintentional injuries to children involved drowning. Every single day approximately ten people die because they drown. Common causes of this preventable accident include lack of swimming ability and lack of fencing around pools and waterways. Parents may be aware of drowning risks and take precautions to mitigate against them, but they may not be aware of the risk of dry drowning or secondary drowning—both of which can occur after a child has left the water. While dry drowning or secondary drowning is rare, cases of this condition are responsible for 1-2% of total drowning deaths.

Dry drowning can happen when a child breathes in water. The water enters your child’s throat, causing the vocal cords to spasm, resulting in the child’s throat closing up. The water never reaches the lungs, but the child’s airways close, making it difficult or impossible to breathe.

Secondary drowning, according to WebMD, occurs when small amounts of water enter the lungs, build up, and lead to swelling. Over time, if left untreated, the body cannot absorb oxygen, leading to death.

These conditions are frightening because they can happen after your child leaves the water. However, there are some symptoms of dry drowning and secondary drowning that parents can watch out for. If your child is coughing, experiencing chest pain, has trouble breathing, or is very tired after leaving the water, your child may be experiencing secondary or dry drowning. If you suspect that your child is suffering from dry drowning or secondary drowning, it is important to get medical attention as soon as possible. When treated early, death and injury can be prevented.

Dry drowning or secondary drowning can occur as long as 24 hours after swimming. Children are particularly at risk while napping or sleeping. If water gets into the lungs, the child can wake up choking. According to Parenting, the best way to prevent dry drowning, is to observe proper water safety. Watch your child around the water and keep pools and other bodies of water out of reach of children by using proper fencing.

If your child is rescued from the water, it is important to take your child to the ER. Even if he or she appears to be healthy and breathing normally, there could still be water in the lungs. Hospital staff can perform proper tests and scans to make sure there isn’t hidden edema or water in the lungs.

Finally, secondary and dry drowning can result in hospital bills or medical expenses—even if your child’s case is minor. If your child’s drowning occurred because of improperly fenced pool areas or due to improper supervision, you may be entitled to compensation to cover his or her medical expenses. A personal injury lawyer may be able to assist you. E. Ray Critchett located in Columbus OH handles swimming pool and other types of drowning accident cases. Call 740-282-5393 to speak with Ray or visit his website at www.buckeyelaw.com.