The lungs are where the blood collects the oxygen and then transports it to the rest of the body. If water enters the lungs the blood isn’t aerated enough and lack of oxygen occurs. This is a very fast process and first you get disorientated and unconscious within minutes. A few minutes later the heart rate drops and could even stop completely.
Early symptoms of lack of oxygen include:
- shortness of breath
- headache
- confusion
- anxiety
- bad judgement
- mindlessness
- elevated hear rate
That might lead to:
- uncoordinated body movements
- unconsciousness
- coma
- death
How to perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation)
- Make sure the person lies flat on his or her back, for instance on the floor or on the ground.
Place one carpus centred on the sternum between the nipples, place the other hand on top of the other. Press down for around 5 centimetres, not exceeding 6 centimetres. Keep at steady pace of 100-120 pressings per minute.