drowning (near)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Near drowning is defined as at least temporary recovery after submersion injury.
Immersion syndrome is delayed sudden death triggered by vagally-induced arrhythmias after cold water immersion Secondary drowning is the result of a pulmonary insult.
Consequences of near drowning are:
- hypoxia
- acidosis
- pulmonary oedema - after both fresh and seawater
These are a result of the actual inhalation of fluid, but they are not necessarily due to the continued presence of fluid in the lungs.