How does drowning occur?

Drowning is a process of respiratory impairment from being in or under a liquid. Although people think drowning involves a lot of noise and waving, but usually, drowning occurs silently and without being noticed by others.

Here's how drowning occurs:

1. Aspiration: When a person's head is submerged in water, water enters the lungs through the mouth and nose. This can cause laryngospasm, a reflex that closes the airway to prevent water from entering the lungs. However, if the person is struggling to breathe, they may inadvertently inhale water, which can lead to airway obstruction and respiratory distress.

2. Laryngeal spasm: Laryngeal spasm, as mentioned earlier, is a reflex that closes the airway to prevent water from entering the lungs. While this reflex can be protective, it can also make breathing difficult, especially if the person is already struggling to breathe.

3. Panic and hyperventilation: When a person finds themselves in water unexpectedly or feels overwhelmed, they may experience panic and hyperventilation. This can lead to increased oxygen consumption and decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream, further exacerbating respiratory distress.

4. Loss of consciousness: As the body becomes increasingly deprived of oxygen, the brain and other vital organs begin to suffer. This can lead to loss of consciousness and eventually, death.

It's important to note that drowning can occur in both deep and shallow water. Even a small amount of water can be dangerous if a person is unable to keep their head above water and breathe properly.

Prevention is key when it comes to drowning. Always supervise children around water, learn to swim, and be aware of the risks associated with swimming in unfamiliar areas or in strong currents.