Chlorine is widely used in swimming pools to disinfect water, eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms to prevent waterborne illnesses. It also helps maintain clear water by controlling algae and breaking down debris. While effective and safe at recommended levels, high concentrations can lead to various bodily effects.
Immediate Effects on the Body
Elevated chlorine levels can cause immediate bodily reactions. The skin often experiences dryness, irritation, and itching. Chlorine strips away natural oils that protect the skin’s outer layer, leading to tightness or rashes. This oil-stripping effect can worsen symptoms for individuals with eczema or dermatitis.
Eyes are sensitive to high chlorine, reacting with redness, stinging, and irritation. This discomfort stems from chloramines, irritating compounds formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter like sweat or skin cells. Chloramines can also cause temporary blurred vision and light sensitivity. The common “chlorine smell” in pools is actually due to these chloramines, not free chlorine.
Hair becomes dry, brittle, and straw-like from chlorine exposure. Chlorine damages the hair shaft. For color-treated or lighter hair, high chlorine can cause noticeable discoloration, sometimes giving blonde hair a greenish tint.
The respiratory system can react to chloramine gases and aerosols above the pool water. Swimmers might experience coughing, sneezing, nasal irritation, and throat discomfort. For those with respiratory sensitivities like asthma, inhaling chloramines can trigger or worsen symptoms, leading to exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. This is especially true in indoor pools with poor ventilation.
Teeth can also be affected by immediate exposure to highly chlorinated water. High chlorine levels can make pool water more acidic. This acidity can lead to surface erosion or increased sensitivity of tooth enamel, especially with frequent and prolonged contact.
Long-Term Health Considerations
Repeated or prolonged exposure to high chlorine can lead to cumulative effects. The skin may develop chronic dryness and increased sensitivity, potentially contributing to premature aging. Consistent stripping of natural oils disrupts the skin’s protective barrier, making it more vulnerable.
Hair can suffer persistent damage, including increased breakage and long-term changes in texture and color. The chemical’s effect on the hair shaft accumulates, making hair more susceptible to damage. Color-treated hair may experience more pronounced and irreversible discoloration over many exposures.
For the respiratory system, prolonged inhalation of chloramines, especially in indoor environments, increases the risk of respiratory issues. This includes “swimmer’s asthma” or chronic bronchitis, particularly among competitive swimmers or lifeguards. Continuous exposure can affect lung tissue and increase asthma risk in children.
Dental health can also face long-term consequences from consistent exposure to acidic, highly chlorinated water. Sustained acidity can lead to significant enamel erosion, making teeth more susceptible to decay and increasing chronic tooth sensitivity. This is particularly noted in competitive swimmers.
Strategies for Protection and Mitigation
Adopting proactive measures can significantly reduce the effects of swimming in highly chlorinated water.
Shower with clean water before entering the pool to minimize organic matter, reducing chloramine formation.
Wet hair with clean water before swimming to saturate strands, making them less absorbent.
Apply a leave-in conditioner or thin layer of oil to hair for a protective barrier.
While in the water:
Wear well-fitting goggles to protect eyes from direct contact with chlorinated water and chloramines.
Use a swim cap to shield hair from extensive exposure.
Avoid swallowing pool water to prevent internal exposure to chlorine and its byproducts.
Immediately after swimming:
Shower thoroughly with soap and water to rinse off chlorine and chloramines from skin and hair.
Apply moisturizing lotion to replenish the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Use deep conditioning treatments for hair to repair and restore lost moisture.
Consider the swimming environment. Opt for well-maintained pools with proper ventilation to dissipate chloramines and improve air quality. Some individuals may also consider saltwater pools, which use a different sanitation system, if available.
Seeking Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen after swimming in chlorinated water. Seek medical advice for:
Persistent or spreading skin rashes or irritation not resolving with typical care.
Severe eye pain, persistent redness, or any changes in vision.
Difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or recurring asthma attacks after swimming.
Any other unusual or concerning symptoms not improving with standard post-swim care.