Suffering from stomach cramps, vomiting, skin irritation or hair loss? It is possible that the cause could be the refreshing swimming pool where you last took a dip. Swimming pools, refreshing water parks and luxury water tubs and spas are not necessarily the most reliable source of water recreation. While going for a swim can be a lot of fun, sometimes germs in swimming pools can make you very sick.

Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs) are caused by swallowing or coming in contact with contaminated water in swimming pools, due either to the germs or hazardous chemicals that can be found in the water. RWIs often include a wide variety of infections, such as gastrointestinal, skin, ear, respiratory, eye, neurologic and wound infections. However, the most commonly reported health problem remains diarrhea.

Contrary to popular belief, chlorine does not kill all germs in the swimming pool instantaneously. Today we find many germs that are tolerant to chlorine and it can take up to a couple days for the chlorine to kill them.

Here are some simple precautions that can help you, your children and swimmers remain healthy in pool water.

            Shower before you get in the pool

            Don’t get in the pool if you have, or have just recovered from diarrhea

           Check the pH of the swimming pool using store-bought pool test strips or by asking the pool staff for the latest inspection score

            Ensure that your pool operators and staff are regularly treating the water appropriately with swimming pool treatment chemicals which are environmentally safe, reduce bio-contaminates to create optimal water clarity and control scum on the tile line

            Make sure the Pool operators are testing the level of pool chemicals regularly and treating the water appropriately if it gets contaminated

            For those suffering from swimmer’s rash (red blisters and itchy, dry skin), a soothing anti-itch product like a menthol cream might help to ease the itch. If the blisters do not disappear in seven to ten days, consult a physician for advice and treatment

            Anytime an eye infection is suspected, visit an eye doctor for an eye exam. Avoid touching eyes with unclean hands. Do not wear contact lenses while the time infection persists and use eye glasses for some time, post treatment

            Excessive chlorine in water causes hair loss. Use a shower cap when this condition is present

            Some pools display details regarding how and when the pool was treated. Look for these signs in order to protect yourself and your family.

– by Water expert: Dr.T.N.V.V. Rao, Director – Asia Operations, Orenda Technologies

Source : Lokesh Shastri