Physiological changes in respiration associated with near drowning in the Dead Sea: a canine model.

An experimental study to elucidate the physiological changes that occur in respiration during near drowning in the Dead Sea was performed in an experimental model. Findings showed that clinical signs of respiratory failure were due to aspiration rather than ingestion of Dead Sea water and occurred within 10 min of aspiration. Physiological changes included increased ventilation, tachypnea, increased resistance, decreased compliance and hypoxia.