Asked by: Andros Animitsa
Asked in category: medical health, first aid
Last Updated: 29th Apr 2024

What are the 6 stages that lead to drowning?

Definition of
  • Surprise. This stage is when the victim recognizes danger and becomes afraid.
  • Involuntary breath holding. Involuntary Breath Holding: The victim has now fallen below the static water line.
  • Unconsciousness.
  • Hypoxic convulsions.
  • Clinical Death.



What are the stages of the drowning process?

There are Typically five stages to drowning:

  • Surprise. This stage is when the victim recognizes danger and becomes afraid.
  • Involuntary Breath Holding
  • Unconsciousness.
  • Hypoxic convulsions.
  • Clinical Death.

Another question is, "What happens to the body after drowning?" Submersion in liquid can cause suffocation, or even stop breathing. The body becomes dehydrated, which can cause organ damage, especially the brain and lungs.

The same goes for the drowning process.

Water can cause drowning when it comes in contact with the voice box (larynx). After a first gasp, there's a period where the body holds its breath. The next step is a period of voluntary breath holding. This is followed closely by spasms of the larynx.

What are the different types of drowning?

Drowning is divided into five types: near drowning (dry drowning), saltwater drowning (freshwater drowning), and secondary drowning (secondary drowning).

  • Near drowning.
  • Dry drowning
  • Freshwater drowning.
  • Salt water drowning.
  • Secondary drowning