A person who has been submersed under water and who is still alive is said to have been "near-drowned." Prompt attention to the victim of a near-drowning episode may make the difference between life and death.Common problems associated with near-drowning.

1. Lack of oxygen occurs because the lung tissue is injured by water, and oxygen transfer into the bloodstream is inhibited. Occasional spasm of the vocal cords blocks the passage of air through the windpipe (most commonly seen in cold water drowning). The victim is short of breath and coughing; she may be wheezing.
2. Body chemistry abnormalities. Because of the lack of oxygen delivery to the organs and tissues of the body, there is rapid accumulation of waste products that cannot be effectively removed. This results in an accumulation of acid and other chemicals that alter the function of the heart, brain, kidneys, liver, etc.
3. Hypothermia, injuries, and serious illnesses may accompany a near-drowning.

Treat for a victim of near-drowning.

1. Send someone for help.
2. Suspect a broken neck in the appropriate circumstances. For instance, someone who tumbles into the waves off a surfboard and washes up unconscious onto the beach may well have a neck injury.
3. Check for breathing by feeling over the mouth and nose while watching the chest rise. Open the mouth and sweep it clean with two fingers. Align the victim on the ground with the head at a level below the feet. Begin mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-mouth and nose (for a child) breathing if necessary.
• If it is impossible to perform mouth-to-mouth breathing because the stomach is full, turn the victim on his side (with his head at a level below the feet) and perform the Heimlich maneuver. Sweep the mouth clear and resume mouth-to-mouth breathing.
• This should not be used routinely in the rescue of near-drowning victims. However, if the victim is not breathing and in the water, where mouth-to-mouth breathing is difficult or impractical, a few brisk Heimlich "hugs" applied to the chest may stimulate the victim to cough and begin breathing on his own.
4. Check for pulses. Begin the chest compressions of CPR if necessary.
5. Cover the victim above and below with blankets. Gently remove all wet clothing.
6. Administer oxygen at a flow rate of 10 liters per minute by face mask.
7. Transport the victim to an emergency facility

Emergencies: Allergic Reaction

Emergencies: Dehydration

Emergencies: Heat-Related Illness

Emergencies: High Altitude Disorders

Emergencies: Hypothermia

Emergencies: Lightning Strike