There have been reported incidences of swimmers and swimming pool employees experiencing wheezing, shortness of breath, or asthma. Some swimmers have even complained of experiencing skin rashes or irritation. Studies and research (nhs.uk/news/2009/09September and swimming.about.com) were conducted because the number of reported incidences was considered significant.

 

The gravity of the asthma attack was found to be dependent on the amount of chlorine that was applied since chlorine was the identified causal agent. Prior to going into panic mode however you should first take your time to read through this article to know that this type of problem is not really out of control.

 

Chlorine-based pool chemicals are the most frequently used to clean, sanitize, and disinfect public and private swimming pools. Unknown to the general population, however, these chlorine-based pool chemicals can have a negative side effect on the human body. These negative side effects does not require you to be swimming in the pool to be able to experience them. Indoor pools are more prone to producing the negative effects of chlorine treatment since they have a tendency to be poorly ventilated.

 

Chlorine is thought to be the reason but if one wants to be more specific it is actually chlorine that is combined with organic wastes. The combination of organic wastes and chlorine produces toxic by-products such as aldehydes, nitrogen trichloride, chloroform, and chloramines.

 

In addition to closely and constantly monitoring the level of chlorine in the pool, one can use another type of swimming pool chemical like bromine tablets to clean, sanitize and disinfect the swimming pool.

 

Immediately leave the pool and its vicinity if you or anybody you know begin to have difficulty in breathing. Your first priority is to be able to breathe properly followed by completely washing off any chlorine by-product from your body.