I'm sure I'm not alone in having experienced skin irritation after using swimming pools, something that more often than not is accompanied by sore eyes and a sore throat. So what is it that causes these problems and why does it not always happen when using a pool?

Many would automatically blame the use of chlorine in pools for such problems, a chemical readily identifiable by its unique smell!

Chlorine, when added to water, has the effect of killing bacteria straightaway as well as bacteria subsequently introduced by swimmers coming to the pool.

Chlorine won't necessarily cause skin problems, so long as it is used correctly. Chlorine levels need to be checked to ensure that the pH of the pool is maintained at 7.4. If this level is not maintained and the pH level is too low, problems can occur such as skin irritation, sore eyes and strong odours. Problems can also be caused where, for example, sun creams and cosmetics react with chlorine to create an irritant.

What it is vital to remember is that chlorine destroys the bacteria that carry water-borne diseases such as Hepatitis A and cholera, creating a safe environment in which people can swim.

Therefore, instead of avoiding the swimming pool, try and watch out for signs of over-chlorination, such as that familiar, strong smell.

Learn more about this author, Sarah Vaughan.
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