Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: Nico Lönnqvist on 01/03/2011 07:30:03

Title: Could I survive semi-submerged?
Post by: Nico Lönnqvist on 01/03/2011 07:30:03

Nico Lönnqvist  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Hey. 

I was wondering and somehow google just couldn't handle the wondering that I made so here we go.

What would happen to my body if I was submerged under water, for a long period of time, up to my neck so that i could still breathe without any problems?  We're talking about a really long time here like days or weeks.  For arguments sake lets also say that i wouldn't get malnourished in any way.

So lets recap. I'm under water but with my head above water so that I can breathe. I'm not getting malnourished either so the only thing that basically could harm me would be the water.  We all know how you can get wrinkly if you soak yourself for a long time but lets go beyond those symptoms.  Anything?  

Oh and if possible please let me know if you answer this somewhere!

What do you think?

Title: Could I survive semi-submerged?
Post by: RD on 01/03/2011 13:16:07

Quote from: Nico Lönnqvist  on 01/03/2011 07:30:03

We all know how you can get wrinkly if you soak yourself for a long time but lets go beyond those symptoms. 

Quote

Maceration is caused by excessive amounts of fluid remaining in contact with the skin or the surface of a wound for extended periods. … Excessive exposure to moisture may not only cause a wound to deteriorate but may also lead to breakdown of the skin.

http://www.nursingtimes.net/nursing-practice-clinical-research/the-causes-and-prevention-of-maceration-of-the-skin/199668.article