What is dry drowning?

Robert Hubbird, MD

Pediatric Critical Care Medicine

When you think of drowning, you think of water. The term “dry drowning” probably seems confusing or like a contradiction. Do you need to worry about drowning outside the water?

Pediatric critical care specialist Robert Hubbird, MD, explained what dry drowning is, what symptoms to look for and how to prevent it from happening.

What is dry drowning?

First of all, dry drowning does involve water, but it isn’t the same thing as ‘secondary drowning,’ which is a totally different process.

“Dry drowning happens when water touches the vocal cords,” Dr. Hubbird explained. “The vocal cords clamp shut and then the patient becomes unconscious because of lack of oxygen to the brain. If they don’t unclench, you can drown without any water entering the lungs. However, usually, the vocal cords will relax, and water will flood the lungs.”

What is secondary drowning?

Secondary drowning happens after a drowning close call when water has entered the lungs. Hours later, fluid can build up, causing pulmonary edema which can lead to hypoxia, a condition that occurs when the body doesn’t have enough oxygen.

“The patient will have trouble breathing, a rapid respiratory rate, a cough and possibly an altered mental status,” Dr. Hubbird said.

If someone has a near drowning experience, it’s best to get checked out by a physician to make sure there is no issue with the lungs, even if they have mild symptoms such as a little bit of a cough and some disorientation.

“After a significant drowning incident, we want to prevent any secondary damage,” Dr. Hubbird said.

How can you prevent dry drowning and secondary drowning?

All drowning is prevented the same way, using these five layers of protection:

1. Barriers and alarms. If you have a pool, it should have a four-sided fence that’s at least 4 feet high with a self-latching gate. Pool safety covers and alarm systems are also helpful. If you have a hot tub, make sure it’s covered when it’s not in use. Even baby pools should be emptied and deflated or turned upside down if not in use.
2. Capable adult supervision. Make sure children who are not able to swim are within arm’s reach. For kids who know how to swim, designate a “water watcher” who is actively watching the children.
3. Water competency. Every child and adult should know how to swim.
4. Life jackets. U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets are especially important when boating or near open water. Don’t rely on water wings or floaties for small children as they are not approved life-saving devices.
5. Emergency preparedness. Learn CPR and basic water rescue. Have a phone available to call 911 if needed.

Also, Dr. Hubbird said to remember even a little water is dangerous to children.

“What I see a lot is little kids less than a year of age drowning in the bathtub because of a lack of supervision, or they’re with an older sibling who wanders off. You’ve got to be vigilant with children at all times.”

The bottom line

Drowning is silent and it happens fast. Even after a close call, it’s best to get checked out because symptoms can occur up to a day later. Be sure to use the five layers of protection when it comes to drowning and find more tips here on Flourish.