Drowning

All drownings don’t result in death. Some drownings are nonfatal, meaning a person is temporarily unable to breathe due to being submerged under water or another liquid. Nonfatal drowning is a serious medical emergency. After a near-drowning, the victim is at risk for life-threatening illnesses, such as pneumonia.

Goshen Hospital Emergency Department provides expert treatment for near drownings. We know that prompt treatment helps prevent serious complications, and our emergency room team works diligently to restore a victim’s health after a near drowning accident.

Symptoms of near drowning

When someone is drowning, water enters the lungs and prevents oxygen from reaching vital organs and tissues. Even after emerging from the water and getting air, you can still experience symptoms, such as:

• Blue-colored or cold skin
• Drowsiness or unconsciousness
• Anxiety
• Gasping for breath and complete loss of breathing ability
• Coughing and wheezing
• Vomiting

Causes of near drowning and prevention tips you can take

Drownings can happen in any type of body of water, including lakes, beaches, hot tubs and pools. Small children can drown in low levels of water, including bathtubs, toilets and buckets of water.

Other factors that increase the risk of drowning include:

• Diving in shallow or unknown waters
• Swimming near a boat’s exhaust vent
• Having seizures, abnormal heart rhythms and other medical conditions
• Using alcohol or drugs while supervising others or in water

You can help prevent drownings and near drownings by being sober during water activities, learning CPR, supervising children and learning pool and water safety.

What to do after a near drowning

After someone is rescued, they need immediate medical care to prevent brain damage or death. The first step is to call 911. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing, begin rescue breathing as this is more important than chest compressions in a drowning incident.

From prevention to emergency treatment for serious illnesses and conditions, Goshen Health is dedicated to keeping our community safe and healthy. Turn to us for all of your health needs.