Glossary
Dry drowning (myth term)
A popular term, not a medical one. Drowning symptoms start right away; get care for coughing, breathing trouble or confusion.
Dry drowning is a popular phrase, not a medical diagnosis. Water Safety USA (opens in a new tab) says dry, wet, delayed, secondary and near drowning are not medically accepted terms. The worry behind them is real, though: parents fear a child who seemed fine could get sick hours or days after swimming.
Here is what the experts say instead:
- The signs of drowning start right away. They do not disappear and then come back days later.
- Breathing problems can get worse over the next few hours after a scare in the water.
- Anyone with a cough that won't stop, any loss of consciousness, a need for rescue breaths or CPR, chest pain or shortness of breath, or confusion or unusual tiredness after trouble in the water should see a medical professional.
If breathing is hard, call 911. If you are unsure, call your doctor. This page is not medical advice. Read what parents need to know about dry drowning and after a scary moment in the water.
What you can do today: share this symptom list with anyone who watches your children at the pool or beach.