Swimming Pool Safety

There’s nothing quite like a trip to the pool on a sunny day. Swimming is a fun, relaxing activity, that offers a much-needed escape from the summer heat. But, to ensure an enjoyable pool season, it is important to be aware of the common injuries associated with pools and how best to avoid them.

Wet Surfaces

There is a reason why “no running” is enforced at the pool. Areas surrounding the pool, especially those that are tiled, are often wet and slippery. Slick surfaces create trip and fall risks, which can cause mild to severe bodily injuries. While bruises and scrapes can easily result from these falls as well as sprained ankles or broken wrists or arms.

Skin Irritation

A pool, if not properly treated, can become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which thrive in a warm and wet environment. If cleaning chemicals are used improperly, a caustic pool of water is created that can irritate swimmers' eyes, ears, airways and skin.

Skin sensitivity to chlorine can result in skin redness, tenderness, inflammation, lesions and scaling or crusting. Chlorine is a natural irritant and drying to skin which may also contribute to allergies by aggravating the respiratory tract. Irritation can be soothed by washing the affected area with clean water or by utilizing a prescribed corticosteroid cream or antihistamine. If time in the pool results in hives or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away.

Swimmer’s Ear

The ear is designed to funnel water out of the outer ear canal. When too much water rushes in at once, it creates a pressure imbalance and pockets of water can become trapped inside. If bacteria is present, it can enter the skin inside the ear canal and cause swimmer's ear. To protect yourself, it is important to dry your outer ears, slowly and gently, with a soft towel after swimming in the pool. If you are susceptible to ear infections, you may want to consider wearing a pair of earplugs to guard against any water from entering your ears. Though uncomfortable, the good news is swimmer’s ear is most often cleared up with over-the-counter drying ear drops.

If by chance you sustain an injury or illness like the ones above, CareWell Urgent Care will take care of you with a proper diagnosis and treatment so that you can continue to enjoy your summer happy and pain free.