Water safety is a top priority for parents, especially during the warmer months when kids are drawn to pools, lakes, and beaches. While most parents are vigilant about drowning risks, there’s a lesser-known condition called “dry drowning” that can occur even after a child has left the water. Understanding what dry drowning is, recognising the warning signs, and knowing how to prevent it can make all the difference in keeping your child safe.
What is Dry Drowning?
Dry drowning is a rare but serious condition that occurs when a small amount of water enters a child’s mouth or nose, triggering a reflex that causes the vocal cords to spasm and close up. This spasm blocks the airway, making it difficult for the child to breathe. Unlike traditional drowning, dry drowning doesn’t involve the child inhaling a large amount of water, and the symptoms can appear long after the child has been out of the water, sometimes up to 24 hours later.
How to Know if Your Child Has Suffered From Dry Drowning | Warning Signs
The most crucial factor in preventing dry drowning from becoming life-threatening is early detection. Here are some warning signs to watch for after your child has been swimming, even if they seemed fine in the water:
Difficulty Breathing: If your child is struggling to catch their breath or is breathing rapidly, this could indicate that their airway is partially blocked.
Excessive Coughing: Persistent coughing that doesn’t seem to go away, especially after being in water, is a red flag.
Chest Pain: Complaints of chest pain or a feeling of tightness in the chest may suggest that your child’s lungs are affected.
Unusual Fatigue: If your child is suddenly very tired or seems overly sleepy, it might be due to a lack of oxygen caused by restricted airways.
Behavioural Changes: Look out for any unusual behaviour, such as irritability, confusion, or a noticeable drop in energy levels.
Symptoms and Signs of Dry Drowning
The symptoms of dry drowning can range from mild to severe and usually appear within a few hours after leaving the water. Key symptoms to be aware of include:
- Difficulty Breathing or Shortness of Breath
- Persistent Coughing
- Chest Pain or Discomfort
- Unexplained Fatigue or Sleepiness
- Vomiting: As the body struggles for oxygen, it may induce vomiting.
- Confusion or Disorientation: A lack of oxygen can cause changes in behaviour or mental state.
If your child exhibits any of these symptoms after swimming, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. While dry drowning is rare, its symptoms can escalate quickly, so prompt medical evaluation is critical.
How to Avoid Dry Drowning
Preventing dry drowning begins with vigilance around water. Here are some steps you can take:
Supervise Closely: Always keep a close eye on your child when they’re in or around water, regardless of their swimming ability.
Teach Water Safety: Ensure your child understands the importance of not swallowing water and knowing how to float or tread water if they become tired.
Enrol in Swimming Lessons: Proper swimming techniques can reduce the risk of accidents.
Stay Vigilant After Water Play: Continue to monitor your child for several hours after swimming, especially if they had any incidents in the water, like struggling to swim or accidentally swallowing water.
By being aware of the risks and knowing the signs of dry drowning, you can help ensure that your child stays safe in and out of the water.