Exposure to chlorine in swimming pools can cause or worsen lung problems, including a condition nicknamed "chlorine lung". Chlorine gas is highly corrosive and, when inhaled, irritates and damages the respiratory tract. The severity depends on the level and duration of exposure.
How chlorine affects the lungs
The chemical reaction of chlorine with bodily fluids creates chloramines, which are the main source of respiratory irritation.
- When chlorine is added to a pool, it reacts with sweat, urine, and other organic matter from swimmers to form chloramines.
- The "strong chlorine smell" often associated with pools is actually the odor of chloramines, not chlorine itself, and indicates poor water quality or ventilation.
- In indoor pools, these gases can build up in the air just above the water's surface, increasing the risk of inhalation.
Symptoms of chlorine exposure
The health effects on the lungs can range from acute irritation to long-term conditions.
- Irritant effects: Low-level exposure can cause a burning sensation in the nose, throat, and eyes, along with sneezing, coughing, and chest tightness.
- Acute exposure: Higher concentrations can lead to respiratory distress, severe coughing, wheezing, and fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema).
- Long-term issues:
- "Chlorine cough": A hacking cough that persists after swimming is a common symptom of chronic exposure, especially for competitive swimmers or people with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
- Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS): Exposure to high levels of chlorine can trigger this type of chemical-induced asthma, which can become persistent.
- Airway damage: Studies on severely exposed individuals have shown long-term inflammation, reduced lung function, and increased risk of respiratory illness.
Who is most at risk?
While anyone can experience irritation, some groups are more vulnerable to lung problems from chlorine exposure.
- Children: Their developing airways are smaller and more susceptible to corrosive agents, putting them at higher risk.
- Competitive swimmers: Their frequent and prolonged training in indoor pools increases their exposure and risk of developing respiratory disorders.
- Individuals with asthma: Those with pre-existing lung conditions are often more sensitive to breathing in chloramines.
- Pool workers: Employees who spend significant time around pool chemicals or in poorly ventilated areas are at a higher risk of developing chronic respiratory issues.
