Water is the best refuge from the scorching heat and high temperatures during summer. This is the major reason people of every age group submit to swimming when the temperature gets too hot. Even without this, some people like swimming in general and do practice it at least once in a week. It offers numerous physical and mental health benefits, but it is the major cause of recreational water illnesses too.
Recreational water illnesses are the ones that are contracted while enjoying water sports or activities like swimming. The germs and other contaminations in the water can negatively impact the health of a few and make them ill. Therefore, knowing about the recreational water illnesses before heading to a swimming pool or attraction is more than critical.
Keep scrolling down this article to explore recreational water illnesses you should know about before swimming.
Top 8 Recreational Water Illnesses You Should Be Aware Of
Sports activities often expose people to dangerous life situations, although the thrill and excitement are much high. Water sports and swimming specifically is also not safe from the chances of problematic situations like contracting recreational water illness. Although the facilities managing pools take care of such issues, you must have a basic knowledge about such illness to get first aid on time.
Here are some of the most common recreational water illnesses you should be aware of to maximize your health and wellbeing.
1. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the most common symptoms which falls in the category of recreational water illnesses. It can develop in normal conditions, too; however, the chances increase significantly in the case of swimming in contaminated water. On the other hand, all the swimming facilities are not the same. Swimming with dolphins Dubai based facilities takes special care of water purity which attracts more and more visitors on a daily basis.
2. Hot Tub Rash or Dermatitis
Another significantly common recreational water illness symptom you should be aware of before practicing swimming is the hot tub rash or dermatitis. It is a type of skin allergy that targets the specific parts of the body like hands, arms, foot, and face, etc. Tiny bumps may appear on the affected area accompanied by severe itching and pain. Consult the doctor for treatment.
3. Ear Pain
One of the least expected recreational water illnesses you should be aware of is ear pain. Most of the people think that water may have entered their ear, due to which they experience pain. However, it is not just water but contaminated water that enters the body somehow and causes painful conditions like this. You must ensure the purity of water before entering any pool or other water facility.
4. Eyes Irritation
Eye’s infection is another common recreational water illness you should be aware of to stay safe and healthy while enjoying water activities like swimming. A unique aspect of eye irritation contracted during swimming is that even purified water can cause this condition. The chemicals used to purify the water can react with the eyes and cause irritation. So, it is better to wear eye protection while swimming.
5. Wound Infections
Another common recreational water illness you should know about before jumping in the swimming pool is wound infection. Firstly, if you have a wound, you should not enter the water until it is completely healed because it can contaminate the water and cause suffering or others. Secondly, the pollutants or chemicals in water can cause or worsen your wound, so following the health precautions is critical.
6. Gastrointestinal Problems
Another common recreational water illness caused by swimming is gastrointestinal problems. This type of disease develops due to water-borne germs and pollutants. However, it does not mean you will always develop this problem after getting into the water. Most of the public water facilities follow proper safety and purifying protocol to ensure the wellbeing of visitors.
7. Respiratory Issues
One of the most dangerous and life-threatening recreational water illnesses you should be aware of is the respiratory issue. If you do not know swimming, you can easily develop this issue. On the other hand, the purifying chemicals or germs in the water can also lead to the respiratory issue. So, be sure to test the waters before finally entering the pool and enjoying swimming.
8. Skin Irritation
Lastly, the most common recreational water illness is skin irritation. If you start experiencing itching, rashes, and redness on the body after swimming, greater chances are you have contacted some skin allergen for which you must consult a doctor immediately. However, you can visit Dubai aquarium and underwater zoo to enjoy a safe and healthy, one of its kind swimming experience.
Follow Safety Precautions to Avoid Recreational Water Illnesses!
Swimming is a healthy activity; however, impure water can expose you to various diseases. To avoid the speculation of impurities or diseases altogether, contact the well-established facilities to enjoy your swimming experience while staying safe.
Learn More:
A Complete Guide About Ticketing To The Dubai Aquarium