Swimming Pool Care and Your Health
Why clean pools matter, common health risks, and when to see your GP
Why pool care matters for health
Swimming pools support fitness, rehabilitation, and family recreation. When water quality is well managed, swimming is safe and beneficial for most people. Problems arise when pool care slips. Inadequate filtration, poor chemical balance, or overcrowding allow germs and irritants to build up, increasing the risk of illness. Pool care is therefore not just about clarity or smell—it directly influences health.
How poorly maintained pools affect the body
Pools that are not properly maintained can expose swimmers to bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These organisms may cause gastrointestinal illness, ear infections, skin rashes, eye irritation, and respiratory symptoms. Chemical imbalance also matters. Excess chlorine can irritate the eyes, skin, and airways, while too little allows microbes to multiply. Symptoms often appear after swimming and may affect more than one person who used the same pool.
Common health issues linked to pools
Some of the most frequent problems include ear pain or discharge (often called “swimmer’s ear”), itchy or irritated skin, red or painful eyes, and diarrhoea. People with asthma may notice coughing or chest tightness in poorly ventilated indoor pools, where chemical by-products accumulate in the air. These effects do not mean swimming is unsafe overall, but they highlight why consistent pool care matters.
Who needs extra caution
Children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with eczema, asthma, or weakened immune systems may be more sensitive to pool-related exposures. Open cuts or broken skin also increase the chance of infection. For these groups, avoiding pools that look poorly maintained or feel irritating can reduce health risks.
Healthy pool habits for swimmers
Showering before swimming reduces the amount of sweat, sunscreen, and organic material entering the pool. Avoid swimming when you have diarrhoea, uncovered wounds, or active infections. Encourage children to take regular bathroom breaks and practise good hygiene. These shared habits support cleaner water and safer swimming for everyone.
When to see your GP
A GP review is appropriate if you or your child develop persistent ear pain, skin infections, eye symptoms that do not settle, fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or breathing symptoms after swimming. Your GP can assess whether symptoms relate to pool exposure, rule out other causes, and guide appropriate care. Early review helps prevent minor problems from becoming more serious.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.