Chlorine cough, also known as swimmer’s cough or tracheobronchitis, refers to the irritation of the respiratory system caused by chemicals often found in swimming pools. This irritation typically manifests as coughing, a burning sensation in the throat, and sometimes wheezing. It commonly affects individuals who spend time in indoor swimming pools or hot tubs.
What Causes Chlorine Cough
Chlorine itself is not usually the direct cause of chlorine cough; instead, the issue stems from compounds called chloramines. These substances form when chlorine, used as a disinfectant in pools, reacts with organic matter introduced by swimmers, such as sweat, urine, and skin cells. This reaction produces volatile chloramines, like trichloramines, which become airborne.
These airborne chloramines tend to settle just above the water’s surface, where they are easily inhaled. Inhaled, they irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like coughing, a dry and itchy throat, and sometimes nasal congestion. This problem is more pronounced in indoor pools with poor ventilation, allowing these irritants to accumulate.
Immediate Relief for Chlorine Cough
If you experience chlorine cough, moving to an area with fresh air provides immediate relief. Moving to a well-ventilated space reduces further exposure to airborne chloramines. This allows your respiratory system to recover.
Drinking water or warm liquids, such as tea with honey, can help soothe an irritated throat and keep the mucous membranes moist. Hydration helps to thin mucus, making it easier to clear your airways. Rinsing your mouth and nasal passages with a saline solution also helps remove residual irritants and alleviate discomfort.
Taking a warm shower is beneficial, as the steam helps open airways and loosen mucus contributing to the cough. Using over-the-counter cough drops or throat lozenges provide temporary relief by coating the throat and reducing irritation. These products often contain menthol or other soothing ingredients.
Preventing Chlorine Cough
To prevent chlorine cough, proactive measures include showering thoroughly before entering the pool. Showering reduces organic matter (like sweat and body oils) that reacts with chlorine to form irritating chloramines. This minimizes organic load and helps maintain better air quality around the pool.
Ensuring proper ventilation in indoor pool areas is important. Good airflow dissipates airborne chloramines, preventing accumulation. If you notice a strong, pungent chlorine odor, it indicates high chloramine levels, and it is advisable to avoid swimming in that pool.
Staying well-hydrated supports respiratory health and helps manage exposure to irritants. While symptoms are temporary, if coughing persists or worsens after leaving the pool, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended. This ensures any underlying respiratory issues are addressed.