Dry Drowning Symptoms To Watch For

Dry drowning is a somewhat rare condition that can occur when an individual inhales water when in a panicked situation. For instance, when a child falls into water unexpectedly, their first reaction would likely be to panic, which would cause them to gulp down a substantial amount of water. In most cases, this shouldn't cause any additional problems once they've been rescued. However, it's possible an individual's windpipe muscles could close up to protect the lungs once water is taken in through the mouth or nose. This is considered a medical emergency that can cause massive complications if they don't obtain treatment immediately. Although this condition is possible in adults, it's most common among younger children. Understanding the various symptoms that can occur with dry drowning should help individuals identify when medical attention is crucial.

Issues Breathing Or Speaking

Among the most common symptoms of dry drowning is breathing issues or problems speaking. Since dry drowning causes the vocal cords to close, patients will undoubtedly experience some form of breathing or speaking problems. Keep in mind the extent of the problems depends on the severity of the patient's condition. When the vocal cords close over an individual's windpipe, this is referred to as laryngospasm. Cases of laryngospasm can differ in severity. Individuals suffering from a mild case of the condition could simply experience shortness of breath. A more serious restriction of the windpipe can keep patients from speaking altogether and can make it difficult for oxygen to get in and out of their lungs. With the mildest cases of this condition, it's possible for these symptoms to dissipate on their own. However, treatment is commonly needed to make sure the patient's issues with breathing or speaking don't worsen.

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Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common symptom with a wide range of different conditions and diseases, which is why it's important this symptom is accompanied by others on this list before a patient is determined to be suffering from dry drowning. Issues with airways can cause additional problems with the lungs. If an individual is coughing regularly and experiencing shortness of breath because of dry drowning, it's likely they will start to experience pain in their chest as well. This pain can feel very strange if they've never encountered it before, and in some situations, it may seem as though they are having a heart attack. While this is certainly possible, dry drowning can cause a mild chest pain that worsens if patients don't get it treated quickly. This pain can also feel different depending on the exact cause for the pain. When it comes to dry drowning, it's common for the pain to be dull or achy.

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