Hidden Risks Near Pools

The water during the summer months not only provides refreshment but unfortunately also creates a favorable environment for various pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When visiting pools, lakes, or beaches, if we do not pay attention to hygiene, these pathogens can easily proliferate and cause various diseases for bathers.

Maintaining Our Health

Preserving our health is particularly important when we are by the water. Infections that occur during swimming or bathing, such as skin fungus, vaginal yeast infections, conjunctivitis, external ear canal inflammation, and viral warts, can cause serious problems. Prevention, adherence to proper hygiene practices, and timely treatment of symptoms are essential for the protection of bathers.

Skin Fungus

Skin fungus, as a common ailment, occurs not only between the toes but can also appear on other body parts, such as the scalp or in large skin folds like the armpits and groin. In the initial stages of a fungal infection, symptoms may be barely noticeable, but later on, they can be accompanied by itching, inflammation, and pain. The affected skin area can have a variety of appearances: peeling, moisture, redness, and blistering may occur. If not treated in time, the infection can spread further to the foot, sole, or even the nails.

Treatment of Skin Fungus

When treating skin fungus, it is important not only to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms but also to completely destroy the fungus. In addition to using antifungal agents, caring for the skin surface is crucial. Patience is required during treatment, as while symptoms may improve within a few days, the treatment should continue for another two weeks to ensure the complete eradication of the fungus.

Vaginal Yeast Infections

Vaginal yeast infections can be particularly bothersome, as itching, burning sensations, and odorless discharge can cause very unpleasant symptoms. The infection often occurs alongside urethritis, which can also lead to urinary problems. Treatment for vaginal yeast infections usually involves a combination of oral medications and topical preparations, and it is important to continue treatment even after the symptoms have subsided to ensure complete recovery.

Bacterial Infections Around Pools

The water in pools often becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, especially in the summer when the popularity of beaches increases. External ear canal inflammation, known as “swimmer’s ear,” often develops due to pathogens found in pools. Typical symptoms of the infection include itching, pain in the external ear canal, and sometimes foul-smelling discharge. If the discharge fills the ear canal, hearing loss may occur. The inflamed ear canal appears red and swollen, causing pain.

To prevent this, it is advisable to avoid walking barefoot around pools and to always shower after swimming. To maintain clean pool water, use disinfectants and regularly change the water. Treatment for external ear canal inflammation typically involves local antibiotic ear drops and ointments. After recovery, it is particularly important to prevent the ear canal from becoming moist again, thus avoiding the re-colonization of bacteria.

Viral Warts and Their Treatment

Another problem that can easily arise during swimming is the appearance of viral warts, which belong to the HPV virus family. The development of the disease is facilitated by skin injuries and moisture, so they most commonly appear on the soles of the feet. Warts are typically 1-5 mm in diameter, raised, firm to the touch, and painless lesions that can also occur on other body parts, such as the back of the hands or the face.

The treatment of viral warts is the responsibility of a dermatologist, as over-the-counter preparations generally only provide temporary relief. For appropriate treatment, it is important to consult a specialist who can provide a lasting solution.

How to Protect Against Waterborne Infections?

Although open-water beaches may sometimes seem less hygienic, pathogens around pools can spread much more easily. Still, warm, stagnant water is particularly conducive to the proliferation of bacteria, making adherence to hygiene rules especially important for beachgoers.

The most important preventive measures include avoiding walking barefoot around the pool, quickly changing swimwear, and showering after swimming. Keep the pool water clean and use appropriate disinfectants. By following these basic rules and taking care of our own and our family’s health, we can enjoy summer relaxation and recreation without anxiety.