Banner UMC Sheds Light on the Hidden Dangers of Near-Drowning Incidents

TUCSON, Arizona (13 News) - August is designated as Drowning Prevention Awareness Month, with medical professionals advising families to remain vigilant near water.

Water-related incidents remain the top cause of fatalities among kids aged 1 through 4, and even those who live through such events often face severe lasting effects on their well-being. Every year, numerous children throughout the United States end up in emergency departments following close calls with drowning.

Medical professionals state that merely enduring is not the conclusion of the narrative.

"Even if you don't perish due to drowning, the absence of oxygen will significantly impact your brain," stated Dr. Colin Stewart, Trauma Medical Director at Banner UMC.

Although not every incident leads to death, the brain may experience serious, long-lasting harm within just four minutes of lacking oxygen.

You might experience symptoms ranging from something minor like temporary memory issues, trouble concentrating, or challenges with basic problem-solving," Dr. Stewart explained. "This could go all the way to long-term serious neurological impairments.

As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 22 people experience non-fatal drowning incidents each day in the United States, double the count of daily fatalities. This underscores the importance of being able to identify warning signals promptly.

They will begin using their abdominal muscles for breathing," Dr. Stewart explained. "You'll notice their chest moving significantly as they try to breathe, and these are all indicators of an upcoming respiratory issue.

Professionals recommend that the best method to avoid drowning is to closely monitor your kids. Medical experts advise that if your child is rescued from the water, begin performing CPR right away while dialing 911, and take them to a medical facility without delay.

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