My child is 4 & learning to swim. he swallowed a gulp of pool water about four times in an hour, he coughed and cont playing. how would i know if he inhaled the water too? do i need to worry? i read about 2nd drowning or pneumonia. hes acting fine?

The coughing reflex is designed to prevent significant aspiration, or the inhaling of a foreign substance. A small amount of water getting into the lungs is usually not problematic and coughing allows much of the aspiration to be prevented. If he develops signs of infection-like fever, decreased activity-or difficulty breathing, then have him seen by a doctor ASAP. Best of luck to you!