A water-related injury includes any physical harm stemming from exposure to water, such as while swimming, boating, or participating in water sports. For instance, prolonged contact with cold water can cause hypothermia, a condition where the body loses heat faster than it can produce, leading to dangerously low body temperature. Near drowning is another water-related injury that occurs when a person is submerged in water and unable to breathe for a while, leading to oxygen deprivation. In addition, traumatic injuries can result from diving into shallow water, getting caught in strong currents, or experiencing a collision during water sports. Contaminated water can also lead to various medical concerns, including gastrointestinal illnesses from ingesting bacteria or parasites and skin infections from contact with polluted water. Water injuries can range from mild to life-threatening, and prompt medical attention is often required to address the issue and prevent long-term complications. Depending on the severity of your water-related injury, you can visit urgent care or an emergency room to receive treatment.