About a year and a half ago there was an excellent discussion on this forum (thread title: "Long Term Health Effects") on the topic of the possible ill effects of exposure to chlorinated water in pools.
Has any new information on this subject come forward since that time?
Several posters in the earlier thread theorized that showering before swimming will reduce chlorine absorbtion through the skin from pool water. Is this true? Are the skin pores "sealed" in some way by the tap water from the shower?
One general health "expert," who in other areas seems pretty sensible to me, warns against swimming in pools because "chlorine in most pools is rapidly absorbed through the skin and can contribute to major disruptions in your biochemistry."
This freaked me out a little.
Since most of us will probably keep swimming regardless, I am particularly interested in what one can do to reduce the risk.
Does showering pre-swim help?
Does a thorough post-swim anti-chlorine soap scrubbing help?
Would wearing a bodysuit while swimming help?
Parents
Former Member
It's not the pee,
That worries me.
It's the poo,
In the pool.
Seriously, I've noticed very few people do more than loosen the dirt in the shower before heading to the pool, so chlorination is a must.
Some chlorine may be absorbed, but as long as the pool isn't over chlorinated, and you don't drink the pool water, health problems from chlorine should be minimal, as long as the pool area is well ventilated.
It's not the pee,
That worries me.
It's the poo,
In the pool.
Seriously, I've noticed very few people do more than loosen the dirt in the shower before heading to the pool, so chlorination is a must.
Some chlorine may be absorbed, but as long as the pool isn't over chlorinated, and you don't drink the pool water, health problems from chlorine should be minimal, as long as the pool area is well ventilated.
