May be caused by submersion in water, or by causing the throat to go into a spasm.
CAUSES: Bathing accidents, falling overboard a ship or small boat, suicide attempts (e.g. drowning in bath), excessive intake of alcohol (combined with drugs), gunshot wounds of lower jaw & face.
DIAGNOSIS: Apart from gunshot wounds, patient is found in water, patient will be unconscious, body is lifeless, no evidence of breathing, color is ashen, lips are blue, often an absence of {pulse}, body is cold.
TREATMENT: Remove from water, check {airway} & remove any debris from mouth which may be causing obstruction, feel for {pulse}. Call for medical assistance urgently.
