Secondary Drownings

What a sad story. I was reading over at ABC news about a little 10 year old who died due to secondary drowning. Secondary drowning is also known as dry drowning and happens when a small amount of water is ingested and then goes on to do damage to the lungs.

Apparently, this is not near as common as drownings or near-drownings, but it still happens. This little fellow had ingested some pool water while swimming...haven't we all? He seemed to have recovered but was starting to show signs of lethargy...as do my kids when they have been swimming. The little guy also soiled himself several times...which may or may not have been a red flag...that depends on the kid, ya know? Any way, what I'm getting at is that I would have done the same thing this mom did...assume my child was worn out from swimming! I also would have let my child lay down for a nap....

I am completely sad for this mom right now...how helpless she probably feels. In the news report she says she wants others to know and to watch for the signs associated with secondary drowning. I know that I will be more observant from now on.....

Very sad.

General warning signs:

• difficulty breathing
• extreme fatigue
• change in behavior