A Parent's Guide to Identifying, Preventing Dry and Secondary Drowning

In 2017, the tragic death of 4-year-old Frankie Delgado from secondary drowning shed light on the hidden dangers of water inhalation. His parents shared their story with the media, and as a result, another child's life was saved.

Lacey Grace, the mother of Elianna, recognized the symptoms of secondary drowning after her daughter inhaled pool water and remembered Frankie's story.

According to Today, she promptly took Elianna to the emergency room, where doctors treated her for water-induced lung infections. Understanding the distinctions between dry drowning and secondary drowning is essential for parents to recognize the warning signs and take appropriate action.

Drowning remains a significant risk, especially among children under 12, with males being particularly vulnerable. According to Dr. James Callahan from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, drowning ranks among the leading causes of death in children. Secondary and dry drowning, while less common, can also pose serious threats.

Differentiating Dry Drowning and Secondary Drowning

While often used interchangeably, dry drowning and secondary drowning have distinct characteristics. Both conditions fall under the umbrella of submersion injuries.

Dry drowning occurs when water is inhaled, causing the vocal cords to spasm and close, thus blocking the airway and leading to asphyxiation. The water remains trapped in the mouth or nose, mimicking a choking episode, and can cause the individual to turn blue.

On the other hand, secondary drowning involves the inhalation of water that enters the lungs. Initially, the symptoms may be subtle, but over time, they worsen. Parents should be alert to signs of rapid, labored breathing, persistent coughing, and lethargy in their children. Sudden sleepiness could indicate a lack of oxygen due to the lungs' compromised ability to function properly.

Parents should seek medical assistance if their child exhibits the following symptoms after a water incident:

1. Vomiting: If a child vomits after swallowing water, it could be a sign of both dry drowning and secondary drowning.
2. Persistent coughing: Coughing that continues after leaving the water could be an indication of water in the airways, requiring medical attention.
3. Difficulty breathing: If a child experiences breathing difficulties or shortness of breath, it is essential to seek immediate medical help.
4. Lethargy or unusual fatigue: If a child becomes unusually tired or lethargic after being in the water, it may be a sign of oxygen deprivation and should not be ignored.

Read Also: Water Safety: Wearable Warning Device Helps Parents Protect Their Kids From Drowning Accidents 

Preventing Drowning Incidents

To prevent drowning incidents, it is crucial to educate children about water safety and teach them to swim. Learning CPR is highly recommended for parents to respond effectively in emergency situations. Children should be encouraged to wear life vests while swimming and should only swim in designated safe areas. Maintaining constant supervision, such as designating a responsible adult as a water watcher, ensures that children are closely monitored and reduces the risk of accidents.

Understanding the differences between dry drowning and secondary drowning is essential for parents and caregivers. While rare, these conditions can have severe consequences if not recognized and treated promptly. Parents should be aware of the warning signs, such as persistent coughing, breathing difficulties, and lethargy, and seek medical attention when necessary.

By prioritizing water safety, promoting swimming lessons, and maintaining constant supervision, parents can help prevent drowning incidents and protect their children from these hidden dangers. Remember, it is better to be vigilant and take precautions than to underestimate the risks associated with water-related incidents.

Related Article: Drowning: Leading Cause of Death in Young Children [Useful Tips to Prevent Them From Happening]