What does the term 'secondary drowning' refer to?

The term 'secondary drowning' specifically refers to respiratory distress that occurs after water has been ingested into the lungs. This condition can arise when a person inhales a small amount of water, which may not lead to immediate respiratory failure but can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation in the lungs later on. Victims might initially appear to be fine after being rescued or removed from the water, but symptoms can develop hours or even days later as the body's response to the water in the lungs progresses.

Understanding this concept is crucial for responses to near-drowning incidents, as it emphasizes the importance of monitoring individuals after they have experienced a potential drowning scenario, even if they seem stable at first. This awareness can lead to timely medical intervention that may prevent severe complications or death from secondary drowning.