Physiology of Drowning.

Most of the fatal casualties among divers and underwater swimmers are due to drowning. This number could be reduced by the proper practice of resuscitation and post-resuscitation treatment. Drowning is defined as an asphyxial death due to submersion in water, but this definition is by no means adequate. In addition to asphyxia, the effects of water inhaled into the lungs is of major importance a minute and a half of complete submersion will kill a dog whereas recovery will occur after four minutes of complete deprivation of air by other means. There is also a considerable difference in both pathophysiology and treatment depending upon whether the drowning occurs in fresh or salt water. Finally, the treatment of the patient after resuscitation has been achieved is crucial to his survival.