Salt water aspiration syndrome

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Salt water aspiration syndrome
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Pulmonology
Symptoms	Cough, dyspnea, hypoxia
Complications	Acute respiratory distress syndrome
Onset
Duration
Types
Causes	Aspiration of salt water
Risks	Swimming, diving, near-drowning
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis
Differential diagnosis	Freshwater drowning, pneumonia, chemical pneumonitis
Prevention	Avoidance of aspiration during water activities
Treatment	Oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation if severe
Medication
Prognosis	Generally good with prompt treatment
Frequency
Deaths	Rare

Salt Water Aspiration Syndrome is a medical condition that occurs when salt water is inhaled, often as a result of near-drowning incidents. The inhaled salt water, drawn into the lungs, can lead to a series of complications including pneumonia, pulmonary edema, and respiratory failure.

Causes

The primary cause of Salt Water Aspiration Syndrome is the accidental inhalation of salt water, typically during a near-drowning event. Other potential causes include inhaling salt water during water sports or other aquatic activities.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Salt Water Aspiration Syndrome can vary depending on the amount of water inhaled and the individual's overall health. Common symptoms include:

• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Fatigue

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Salt Water Aspiration Syndrome typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Additional tests may include a chest X-ray, CT scan, or bronchoscopy to assess the extent of the damage to the lungs.

Treatment

Treatment for Salt Water Aspiration Syndrome focuses on supporting the patient's breathing and treating any resulting infections or complications. This may involve the use of oxygen therapy, antibiotics, or diuretics. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be required.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for Salt Water Aspiration Syndrome primarily involve water safety measures, such as the use of life jackets and supervision during aquatic activities.

Salt water aspiration syndrome images

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  Salt water aspiration syndrome

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  Salt water aspiration syndrome

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  Salt water aspiration syndrome

See Also

• Drowning
• Pulmonary Edema
• Respiratory Failure

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