Drowning is a critical emergency where consciousness can be lost within 2 minutes and irreversible damage can occur within 4-6 minutes. Prompt and proper rescue measures are vital to saving lives.
Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps, or muscle spasms, occur when muscle tissues are intensely stimulated, causing blood vessels to contract and leading to poor local blood circulation and severe muscle contractions. Common causes include cold water, insufficient warm-up, overexertion, improper posture, sudden changes in activity, and excessive tension.
Self-rescue Measures for Cramps:
- Calf and Toe Cramps
- Take a deep breath and float on your back.
- Grasp the cramped toes with the opposite hand and stretch the calf forward. Alternatively, press the cramped knee with one hand and stretch the calf with the other to relieve the spasm.
- Finger Cramps
- Clench your fist tightly, then stretch it out forcefully. Repeat quickly several times until the cramp subsides.
- Upper Arm Cramps
- Clench your fist and flex your elbow joint as much as possible, then straighten it forcefully. Repeat several times.
- Thigh Cramps
- Take a deep breath and float on your back.
- Bend the cramped leg and hold the lower leg close to the thigh while gently shaking it to relieve the cramp.
Diet Adjustments to Prevent Cramps:
- Include meat, eggs, and other protein-rich foods to increase heat tolerance.
- Consume some sweets for additional energy.
- Drink slightly salty water before swimming to prevent electrolyte imbalances.
- Include calcium and phosphorus-rich foods like dairy, fish, nuts, and vegetables.
Drowning
Causes of Drowning Death:
- Inhaling large amounts of water blocking the airway.
- Intense laryngeal spasms causing airway closure and suffocation.
Symptoms:
- Blue and swollen face, bloodshot eyes.
- Blood-tinged foam in the mouth, nose, and airways.
- Cold limbs, weak pulse, possible convulsions, or cessation of breathing and heartbeat.
Self-Rescue and Rescue Methods:
- Self-Rescue:
- If unfamiliar with swimming, float on your back, tilt your head back to keep your nose above water, and call for help. Breathe shallowly and deeply to float.
- For swimmers experiencing a cramp, float on your back and stretch the cramped muscle, then swim slowly to the shore.
- Rescuing Others:
- Approach the drowning person from behind.
- Use floating objects like a board or life ring to help them stay afloat and guide them to shore.
Post-Rescue Treatment:
- Clearing Airways:
- Remove mud, mucus, and dentures from the mouth and nose.
- Drain water from the airways by laying the victim face down on one knee of the rescuer and using gravity to help expel water.
- Artificial Respiration:
- Perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and chest compressions if breathing and heartbeat have stopped.
Key Takeaway:
Prompt, correct response to cramps and drowning can save lives. Knowing how to self-rescue, help others, and provide post-rescue care is crucial during swimming activities.