Drowning

Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in the United States. Drowning occurs when a person submerged in water or other liquid suffocates. Near drowning occurs when a person survives such a submersion. Drowning can occur whether or not the lungs fill up with water.

In a near-drowning incident, the water makes the person unable to breathe. Oxygen is unable to reach the lungs and other vital organs, including the brain, which can lead to brain injury. The near-drowning person may be awake, semiconscious or unconscious with little or no breathing or heartbeat. Vomiting, cold skin and a bluish-white paleness are common signs.

What to Do

Near drowning is a medical emergency. Have someone call 911 immediately. Rescue the near-drowning person if you are trained in rescue methods and can do it without endangering yourself. Throw a life preserver or use a pole, towel or boat to reach the person if you can't swim to him or her safely. If necessary, immediately open the person's airway and begin artificial respiration even before the person is taken out of the water.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia -- the lowering of body temperature -- afflicts near-drowning victims when incidents involve submersion in cold water.

Head and spine injuries

The head and spine are often injured in diving accidents. If the person is floating face down, gently turn the person over, supporting the head and neck to keep them level with the back. Don't take the person out of the water; instead, keep the person floating on his or her back.

For a head or spine injury, if possible, wait for professional help. If the person has to be moved, immobilize the head and neck first, using a backboard, table leaf, door or several people working as a team to support the head and neck and keep them in line with the back. When a board or other flat, rigid surface is used, it should extend from the head to the buttocks.

Near drowning is an upsetting experience. Stay with a recovering near-drowning person to provide support and reassurance. Any near-drowning person should be taken to the nearest hospital for intensive care, even if the person has regained consciousness. Complications or death from heartbeat disturbances can happen as much as 24 to 48 hours after the accident.