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The expressions "secondary drowning" or "dry drowning" are popularly used to describe situations in which the person ends up dying after, a few hours before, having gone through a situation of near drowning. However, these terms are not recognized by the medical community.
This is because, if the person went through an episode of near drowning, but does not show any symptoms and is breathing normally, he is not at risk of death and should not be worried about "secondary drowning".
However, if the person was rescued and still, within the first 8 hours, has any symptoms such as cough, headache, drowsiness or difficulty breathing, it should be evaluated at the hospital to ensure that there is no inflammation of the airways that can put the life-threatening.
Main symptoms
The person who experiences a "dry drowning" may be breathing normally and be able to speak or eat, but after some time may experience the following signs and symptoms:
- Headache;
- Somnolence;
- Excessive tiredness;
- Foam coming out of the mouth;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Chest pain;
- Constant cough;
- Difficulty speaking or communicating;
- Mental confusion;
- Fever.
These signs and symptoms usually appear up to 8 hours after the episode of near drowning, which can happen on beaches, lakes, rivers or pools, but which can also appear after the inspiration of the vomit itself.
What to do if you suspect secondary drowning
In the event of near drowning, it is very important that the person, family and friends pay attention to the appearance of symptoms during the first 8 hours.
If there is suspicion of "secondary drowning", SAMU should be called, calling the number 192, explaining what is happening or taking the person immediately to the hospital for tests, such as x-rays and oximetry, to check respiratory function.
After diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe the use of an oxygen mask and medications to facilitate the removal of fluid from the lungs. In the most severe cases, the person may need to be hospitalized to ensure breathing with the help of devices.
Know what to do in case of drowning with water and how to avoid this situation.