What generally happens in the brain during the drowning process?

During the drowning process, oxygen deprivation occurs over time in the brain. As a person is submerged in water, they are unable to breathe, which leads to a reduction in the availability of oxygen. The brain, being highly sensitive to oxygen levels, begins to experience negative effects soon after the cessation of breathing.

Initially, the brain may attempt to cope, but as oxygen levels decline, brain cells start to suffer from the lack of oxygen, potentially leading to loss of consciousness and brain injury if the drowning situation is not resolved swiftly. The critical nature of oxygen supply to the brain underscores why recognizing the signs of drowning and responding appropriately is vital for lifesaving efforts and emergency care.