Salt water aspiration syndrome

Salt water aspiration syndrome or saltwater aspiration syndrome is a medical condition caused by the inhalation or aspiration (entry of materials into lungs from mouth) of small amounts of salt water during an underwater dive, leading to lung irritation and inflammation. Unlike drowning or near-drowning, it does not involve ingestion of large volumes of water. It often results from faulty diving equipment or improper breathing techniques, allowing fine water droplets to reach the lower respiratory tract.

The condition begins with a cough, followed by shortness of breath, chest discomfort or pain, shivering, fever and other systemic symptoms. It can resemble a viral infection but improves within hours, especially with supplemental oxygen. While most cases resolve on their own, severe instances may require critical care. Diagnosis is based on clinical history and symptom progression. Salt water aspiration syndrome was first described in 1970.