Drowning (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

What is the prognosis for a drowning victim?

Comment on this

The prognosis for many drowning victims is poor. The brain does not tolerate lack of oxygen well and the amount of potential damage is dependent upon the time the patient spends hypoxemic in the water.

Even if the brain survives, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) may cause significant short and long-term problems as the lungs try to recover from their injuries.

The key to the treatment of drowning is prevention.

References: www.who.int (World Health Organization), "Drowning," "Facts About Injuries: Drowning."


Last Editorial Review: 7/15/2008


Patient Comments

Viewers share their comments

Drowning - Treatment Question: If you know someone who drowned or nearly drowned, what type of emergency treatment was used?
Drowning - Prevention Question: Do you and your family know how to swim? Are you trained in CPR? Please share your experience.
Drowning - What Happens Question: If you had a near drowning experience, please describe what happened and how it felt.
Drowning - Risk Factors Question: Do you know someone who drowned or nearly drowned? What were her/his risk factors (age, medical condition, etc.)?
Drowning - Water Safety Question: Do you have a pool? Please share suggestions for water safety amd how you try to prevent drownings.

Get the latest health and medical information delivered direct to your inbox FREE!