5 Health Hazards of Dirty Swimming Pool
Summer is in full swing and that means one thing for a lot of people: swimming! Whether you're headed to the public pool or your own backyard oasis, it's important to be aware of the health hazards associated with swimming in dirty water. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 health hazards that can occur when swimming in a dirty pool. Stay safe this summer and make sure to keep your swimming area clean!
Diarrhea
One of the most common health hazards of dirty swimming pools is diarrhea. This is because the water can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can cause gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms of diarrhea include watery stools, abdominal cramps, and nausea. If you experience these symptoms after swimming in a pool, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Legionnaires' Disease
Swimming in dirty water can lead to Legionnaires' Disease, a serious lung infection. The bacteria that cause the disease, Legionella pneumophila, thrive in warm water and can be found in both natural and man-made bodies of water. The disease is most often contracted by inhaling contaminated water droplets, making it a particular hazard for swimmers. Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease include fever, coughing, and difficulty breathing, and the illness can be fatal.
To protect yourself from this potentially deadly disease, it is important to avoid swimming in dirty or stagnant water. If you must swim in such conditions, be sure to wear a nose clip or respirator to prevent you from accidentally inhaling contaminated water droplets
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can be contracted through contact with contaminated surfaces, such as swimming pool filters or shower stalls. The most common symptom of a fungal infection is a rash, which can appear anywhere on the body. Other symptoms include itching, redness, and burning. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medications.
Swimming pools can also be breeding grounds for bacteria. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments and can cause various illnesses, such as ear infections, skin rashes, and diarrhea. It is important to practice good hygiene when using pool facilities, including showering before and after swimming and washing your hands thoroughly. Pool users should also avoid swallowing pool water.
Ear Infections
Swimming in dirty water can lead to ear infections, especially in children. The warm, moist environment of a swimming pool is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. When these bacteria enter the ear canal, they can cause an infection. Symptoms of an ear infection include pain, redness, and discharge from the ear. Ear infections are treated with antibiotics.
To prevent ear infections, it is important to practice good hygiene when using pool facilities. This includes showering before and after swimming and keeping your ears clean and dry.
Red eyes
Swimming in dirty water can lead to red eyes, as well as other eye infections. The bacteria and other contaminants in the water can cause irritation and inflammation of the eye. Symptoms of an eye infection include redness, itchiness, and discharge from the eye. Eye infections are treated with antibiotics.
Swimming is a great summer activity, but it’s important to be aware of the health hazards of dirty swimming pools. Pools can contain all sorts of nasty things that can make you sick, from diarrhea to Legionnaires' Disease. So before you take a dip this summer, be sure to call Clear Swim Pool Care and ask about their pool cleaning services. They can help keep your swimming area safe and healthy for everyone to enjoy. Have a happy and safe swimming season!
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Maintaining a healthy pool involves much more than just your basic cleaning. A healthy pool requires a complex understanding of chemistry, water & the principles behind balancing it. That's why your friends here at Clear Swim Pool Care are Licensed and PCCR & CPI Certified by the National Swimming Pool Foundation, and much more. We utilize the latest pool maintenance technology, saving our clients up to 50% in monthly pool energy costs using high-efficiency and variable-speed pool pumps, as well as pioneering the use of healthier alternatives to chlorine and other harsh chemicals. In this regard, we use salt-based chlorine and disinfection systems that are safer for you and your family. We proudly serve Birmingham, Alabama, and the surrounding communities of Hoover, Vestavia Hills, and Mountain Brook. Contact us today to request a free quote or water analysis. We look forward to working with you!