The irritation many swimmers experience after a session in the pool, often presenting as a scratchy or raw feeling in the throat, is a common reaction to pool chemicals. This temporary discomfort is a sign the body has reacted to airborne irritants created during the sanitization process. Understanding the source of this soreness is the first step toward finding relief and preventing its recurrence. This article explores the chemical cause of a chlorine sore throat, offers immediate steps for soothing the discomfort, and provides strategies to minimize future exposure.
Why Chlorine Causes Throat Irritation
The burning sensation in the throat is not caused by the chlorine disinfectant itself, but rather by compounds called chloramines. Chloramines form when chlorine reacts with organic material introduced into the water, such as sweat, oils, cosmetics, and urine. These disinfection byproducts are the source of the strong “chlorine smell” often noticed at indoor pools, indicating a water quality issue rather than a high chlorine level.
The most irritating of these compounds, trichloramine, is a volatile gas that readily escapes the water and concentrates in the air above the pool surface. Since chloramines are heavier than air, they settle at the swimmer’s breathing level, leading to inhalation during exercise. When this gas contacts the mucous membranes lining the throat and nasal passages, it creates a mild acid that causes inflammation, burning, and dryness.
Immediate Home Care and Soothing Measures
The first step in treating a chlorine-irritated throat is to leave the chlorinated environment and get fresh air. Hydration is beneficial, as drinking plenty of water helps moisten the dry, irritated mucous membranes and flushes out residual irritants.
Gargling with a warm salt water solution provides substantial relief by reducing swelling and soreness. A mixture of about one-half teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of warm water is effective and should be done several times a day. For added benefit, a small amount of baking soda can be included in the gargle to help break up mucus and soothe the area.
Sucking on throat lozenges or hard candies stimulates saliva production. Increased saliva flow naturally coats the throat, easing dryness and irritation. The menthol in some lozenges can help calm the cough reflex. Using a humidifier, especially in the bedroom, moisturizes the air, preventing the throat from drying out further.
Preventing Future Chlorine Exposure
Proactive steps can reduce the formation of irritants and limit exposure. Showering thoroughly before entering the pool helps remove organic material like sweat and body oils, which are the primary precursors to chloramine formation. This practice reduces the material available to react with the chlorine disinfectant, improving water and air quality.
If swimming indoors, proper ventilation is important; a good air handling system exhausts chloramine-polluted air and brings in fresh air. Using a nose clip can prevent the inhalation of water and volatile irritants through the nasal passages. Focusing on a controlled breathing pattern, such as ensuring full exhalation underwater, minimizes the chemical vapor inhaled during the breath taken at the surface.
Warning Signs Requiring a Doctor Visit
While most chlorine-related throat irritation is minor and resolves quickly with home care, certain symptoms require medical attention. Seek immediate care if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or wheezing, as these indicate a more severe respiratory reaction.
A doctor should also be consulted if the sore throat persists for longer than 48 hours despite home remedies, or if it is accompanied by other signs of illness. Persistent coughing, a fever, or discharge from the eyes or nose suggests a secondary infection or significant exposure.