Science says drowning is "death by submerging in an aqueous environment." It is one of the most frightening ways to die.

     Here's what happens:

Stage One: Drowning is a gruesome process in which people panic, very seldom call for help, and happens quickly and in silence.

       In the "active" stage of drowning, the victim makes every effort to keep his head above water. Depending on conditions, this stage can last four to five minutes, sometimes longer.

Stage Two: The drowning victim is eventually forced to take a breath underwater. The water rushes into the respiratory system and in some cases, the larynx, or windpipe, involuntarily squeezes shut which leads to "dry drowning" a process of suffocation with no liquid entering the lungs.

       In the more common "wet drowning," water floods both lungs and overwhelms the tiny air sacks where the exchange of oxygen and CO2 occurs. In "wet drowning" headaches occur and the lungs burn, producing extreme physical pain and a sense of hopelessness.

Stage Three: The victim passes from consciousness to unconsciousness and experiences "a peaceful state"

Stage Four: The biochemical balance of the body has become severely disrupted and within thirty seconds, the heart stops and all brain functions cease, and finally death.

From: YCA FILES

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