Beware of Secondary Drowning in Kids!

When children swim, water can sometimes seep into their lungs. In most cases, the lungs are able to expel the water naturally. However, under certain conditions, such as fatigue or other unknown factors, the water may gradually accumulate in the lungs, leading to a dangerous condition known as pulmonary oedema. This condition can hinder the lungs' ability to take in air, and if untreated, it could cause the child to collapse. This is often referred to as secondary drowning.

Dry Drowning

Dry drowning is another related condition that can occur when a child nearly drowns. If a child inhales water, their airways may constrict in an attempt to prevent more water from entering the lungs. This constriction can block the passage of air, leading to breathlessness. The child may not be able to breathe properly, even though there may not be much water in the lungs.

Precautions to Prevent Secondary Drowning

To keep your child safe while swimming, it's important to follow these precautions:

1. Constant Supervision: Keep a close eye on your child while they are swimming to make sure they are safe at all times.
2. Post-Swimming Monitoring: After swimming, monitor your child's behavior for any signs of distress. Don’t let them sleep immediately after swimming.
3. Watch for Fatigue: Only allow your child to swim when they are energetic and fit. Avoid swimming if they are tired, as exhaustion can increase the risk of drowning or secondary drowning.
4. Teach Proper Breathing Techniques: Make sure your child learns how to blow out water while swimming. They should be taught not to panic in the water and stay within safe limits—never pushing beyond their swimming abilities.
5. Don’t Overstretch: Encourage your child not to stretch their limits. If they are overwhelmed, it can lead to exhaustion and increase the risk of drowning or secondary drowning.

What to Do if an Accident Occurs

If your child shows signs of difficulty breathing, it’s important to act quickly:

1. Check for Breathlessness: Determine if your child is struggling to breathe. If they are, immediately ensure they receive oxygen ventilation.
2. Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect something is wrong with your child’s breathing, behavior, or speech, take them to a doctor or the emergency room right away.
3. Observation Period: Keep your child under observation for at least 24 hours after the incident. Secondary drowning symptoms may not appear immediately, so it’s crucial to monitor them closely during this period.

Parental Supervision is Key

Parental vigilance is critical when your child is swimming. Secondary drowning and dry drowning are rare, but they can be life-threatening if not addressed immediately. By following the precautions above and knowing what to do in case of an emergency, you can help ensure your child's safety in the water. Always keep a close watch and act swiftly if anything seems off.