About Us | Privacy | Site Map
June 20, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A
...
5
...

Drowning (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

Drowning Diagnosis

There are two main issues involved with the care of a drowning victim. The first is to access the airway, breathing, and circulation that might be compromised because of the drowning. The second is to look for a potential underlying medical condition that could have caused the drowning to occur.

The initial care is directed to stabilizing the victim's breathing, heart beat, and blood pressure. Once this has occurred, the health care professional will look for common complications of drowning. These include decreased mental function because of lack of oxygen supply to the brain. Lack of oxygen can also damage heart muscle. Lung irritation and infection may occur from water aspirated or inhaled into the lungs. Kidney damage is a common complication in drowning, and may result in electrolyte abnormalities and acid-base disturbances in the body.

If there was an associated trauma, for example a diving injury or a boating accident, evaluation of the head and neck and other parts of the body may be required. Testing that may be ordered depends upon the situation that led to the drowning, the patient's status and any other underlying medical conditions.

Must Read Articles Related to Drowning

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a procedure a person can use to assist a person who is in cardiac arrest. Providing CPR to a person who is in cardiac a...learn more >>

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Drowning »

Drowning is a significant cause of disability and death.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies