Drowning is a potentially life-threatening occurrence that can lead to numerous complications, even in cases of non-fatal or near-drowning incidents. When the body is unable to breathe underwater for a period, major body systems begin to shut down due to oxygen deprivation.

This can happen quickly, particularly in younger children. Symptoms of drowning may include bluish or cold skin, chest pain, abdominal swelling, shortness of breath, coughing, vomiting, and more.

The complications arising from drowning depend on how long someone is deprived of oxygen. Potential complications include pneumonia, chemical imbalances, fluid imbalances, and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Additionally, drowning can lead to permanent brain damage or a permanently disabled state. If the drowning event involved an injury, such as from diving into shallow water, additional treatment may be necessary. Urgent care treatment often focuses on correcting oxygen deprivation and addressing any associated issues to ensure the patient’s recovery.

Swimmer’s ear is often caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming, which leads to the formation of an environment that promotes bacterial growth. Using cotton swabs or other objects in the ear can also increase susceptibility by damaging the skin lining the ear canal.

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear include swelling, redness, irritation, and infection of the outer ear canal. The best way to relieve a swimmer’s ear is to visit an urgent care clinic like PrimeHealth Urgent Care for prompt treatment.

Treatment for swimmer’s ear typically involves ear drops to reduce swelling and kill bacteria, pain relief medications, and guidance on keeping the ear dry. The ear canal might be cleaned to aid the effectiveness of the ear drops, which can involve using a suction device or an ear curette to remove discharge, wax, and debris. In certain circumstances, antibiotics might be required if the infection is advanced.

Visiting a pool can lead to several common injuries, often resulting from unsafe behavior or accidents. Slipping and falling on slippery surfaces around the pool are frequent causes of injury.

Near-drowning incidents are another major concern, particularly in unsupervised pools. Diving injuries are common, especially if individuals dive into shallow areas or areas not as deep as expected.

These injuries can be more likely if proper warning signs or labeling around the pool are missing or if the diving board malfunctions. Other potential risks include problems with pool equipment, such as water slides or pool drains, and defective pool toys, which can pose serious hazards.

Swimmers should be aware of the risks and exercise caution, following safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the pool. Taking these precautions can help individuals to prevent injuries and complications.

Recreational water illnesses cover a broad range of conditions affecting the intestines, stomach, respiratory system, skin, and more. The duration of a recreational water illness depends on several factors, including the specific type of illness and how quickly treatment is sought. Some recreational water illnesses may resolve on their own within a few days, while others can last longer and present with more severe symptoms.

Symptoms of recreational water illness vary, gastrointestinal illnesses may cause nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, while respiratory illnesses can lead to shortness of breath or cold-like symptoms.

Skin infections might present with rashes, boils, or skin damage. The onset of symptoms and their severity can differ, influencing the illness’s duration.

If symptoms do not resolve on their own or if exposure to contaminated water is suspected, contacting an urgent care facility like PrimeHealth Urgent Care is the best course of action for diagnosis and treatment to ensure swift and lasting relief and to prevent complications.

Water injury treatment is available at PrimeHealth Urgent Care. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online now! We are located at 3018 53rd Av East Bradenton, FL 34203. We serve patients from Bradenton FL, Oneco FL, West Samoset FL, Palmetto FL, Lakewood Ranch FL, Sarasota FL, and surrounding areas.