Learn why swallowing pool water can cause nausea or fever to children. Here’s what to do when your child swallows pool water and how to prevent it.
Your child can get sick from drinking pool water. Because water can contain bacteria, chemicals, and parasites that can cause illnesses. Symptoms can range from fever to gastrointestinal problems and even respiratory issues.
Just last week, my youngest had a fever after a fun afternoon in our backyard pool. And one thought kept circling in my mind, is the pool water responsible, or it’s something else?
Therefore, I was trying to discover as much as possible. After discussions with my children’s pediatrician and other parents, I learn about the potential risks of drinking poo water and how to manage them.
That experience led me to create this guide. Here, I’ll share what I’ve learned about the risks of swallowing pool water and why it can cause symptoms like fever or vomiting.
This article will cover the following:
- Potential Dangers of Pool Water
- Timeline of Pool Water-Related Illnesses
- Link Between Pool Water and Fever
- Dealing with Pool Water Ingestion
- Ensuring Safe and Healthy Pool Experiences
- Conclusion
Thankfully, My child recovered quickly. It turned out that swallowing some pool water likely gave him a mild recreational water illness. Something I hadn’t even heard of before.
Not sure which pool safety device you need? Explore my list of the must-have pool safety devices when you have children. This carefully curated guide is the result of numerous hours of research and my own experience as a dad and pool owner.
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Understanding the Potential Dangers: What Lurks in Your Pool Water?
Ever watched your child gulp down pool water with a grimace? As harmless as this might seem, hidden dangers could lurk in pool water. I’ve gathered some expert advice on what to look out for.
What Constituents of Pool Water Can Make a Child Sick?
- Chemicals in Pool Water: Let’s start with the most obvious one: chemicals. We add them to our pools to keep the water clean, but they can cause problems if ingested. Chlorine, for example, is widely used to kill bacteria and algae. However, too much can lead to mild discomfort, such as stomach upset or vomiting. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), high chlorine levels can cause chemical pneumonitis, a type of lung inflammation. - Microorganisms and Pathogens: Another concern is the presence of bacteria and parasites. Even in well-maintained pools, these microorganisms can sneak in in various ways. My friend’s daughter got sick after a pool party last summer, and it turns out she had picked up a parasite called Cryptosporidium. Supposedly a common cause of recreational water illness (RWI). The CDC warns that this parasite is resistant to chlorine and can survive in well-chlorinated pools for days.
What Are Recreational Water Illnesses?
Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs) are diseases caused by germs and chemicals in the water we swim in. They’re contracted by swallowing, breathing in mists or aerosols, or having contact with contaminated water.
There are various types of RWIs, including:
- Gastrointestinal Infections: These are caused by germs like Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Shigella, norovirus, and E. coli. These infections typically result in diarrhea but can cause other problems, including nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and dehydration.
- Skin Infections: These can occur when germs in the water cause infections on the skin or wounds. Conditions like swimmers’ itch and hot tub rash are skin-related RWIs.
- Respiratory Infections can occur when chemicals or germs in the water create mists or aerosols that are inhaled into the lungs. Legionnaires’ disease, severe pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, is an example of a respiratory RWI.
- Eye, Ear, and Neurological Infections: These can also be contracted from contaminated water, leading to severe eye and ear infections or meningitis.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides extensive resources on RWIs, how they’re contracted, and how they can be prevented. The key to prevention is practicing good hygiene and ensuring the cleanliness of the recreational water.
Can Swallowing Pool Water Cause Vomiting?
Last week, my son practiced his dolphin impression in our backyard pool. However, amidst his giggles and splashes, he swallowed a mouthful of pool water. Not long after, he complained about feeling sick, and sure enough, he vomited. You may have experienced something similar with your child, bringing us to a crucial question: why does swallowing pool water cause vomiting?
- Chemical Effects: As mentioned, pools typically use chlorine to clean the water. While these substances are essential for killing harmful bacteria and algae, they can also irritate your child’s stomach if ingested in large amounts. Swallowing a significant amount of chlorinated water can lead to nausea and vomiting.
- Pathogens Playing Havoc: Then there are the bacteria and parasites I mentioned earlier. If these microorganisms have entered your pool, swallowing pool water can introduce them to your child’s digestive system. Here, they can cause various symptoms, vomiting being one of them.
If your child has vomited after swallowing pool water, it’s crucial to remember not to panic. Monitor their symptoms; if they persist or worsen, consult your pediatrician. The good news is vomiting is usually the body’s way of getting rid of unwanted substances, which may help expel any ingested pool water or bacteria.
Why Does My Child Get Sick After Swimming?
Starting off with the obvious, pool chemicals, while necessary for maintaining cleanliness, can sometimes irritate our child’s sensitive system. Then we have Recreational Water Illnesses.
Surprisingly, it’s not always the pool water that’s to blame. Fatigue from over-exertion, sunburn, or dehydration can make our kids feel unwell after swimming.
Despite these risks, there’s no need to put a full stop to pool fun. Regular pool maintenance, teaching kids not to swallow pool water, taking breaks, applying sunscreen, and ensuring proper hydration can all contribute to a healthier swimming experience.
We’ll talk more about the timeline of pool-related illnesses next. Understanding this can help us spot any issues early and take appropriate action.
The Timeline of Pool Water-Related Illnesses: When Should I Expect Symptoms?
If you’re anything like me, the minute you see your child swallow some pool water, you’re counting the seconds and waiting for any signs of illness.
How Long After Swallowing Pool Water Can My Child Get Sick?
First, let’s clarify that the onset of symptoms depends largely on what’s causing the illness. If it’s chemical irritation, symptoms like stomach upset or skin rashes can appear within a few hours of exposure. Remember my son’s post-dolphin-impersonation episode? He started feeling unwell not too long after his pool adventure.
However, the timeline can vary if we’re dealing with bacteria or parasites. For instance, according to the CDC, with Cryptosporidium, the pesky parasite that got my friend’s daughter, symptoms usually appear 2-10 days after exposure. Other germs might have different incubation periods, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your child in the days following a pool day.
It’s essential to remember that while we can’t control everything, we can use this knowledge to our advantage. Understanding these timelines allows us to anticipate better and respond to any potential illness.
Can Prolonged Exposure Increase the Risk of Illness?
If we boil it down, the more time our kids spend in the pool, the greater the chance of them swallowing pool water, which could increase their risk of getting sick. This is about more than just the accidental mouthful here and there. Even the tiny droplets they unknowingly swallow while laughing, talking, or splashing around can add up over time.
Moreover, prolonged exposure can also increase the risk of other pool-related ailments. For example, an extended stay in the pool can lead to skin dryness or irritation due to chlorine, especially for those with sensitive skin. One summer, my daughter had quite an unpleasant rash after several marathon pool sessions.
Furthermore, lengthy pool sessions can sometimes result in sunburn, dehydration, and fatigue, especially if our little ones forget to take breaks in their excitement.
Now, I’m not suggesting we limit our kids to quick dips in the pool. Instead, we can manage their time effectively. Regular breaks can help to minimize water swallowing and give their skin a break from the chlorinated water.
We’ve looked at what could make our kids sick and when. But what about those pesky fevers that tend to follow a fun pool day?
The Link Between Pool Water and Fever: Is Pool Water to Blame?
After an enthusiastic day of water games, I was puzzled to find my youngest with a fever. Curious and concerned, I started to dig deeper. It turns out that fevers after swimming can result from a reaction to pathogens in pool water.
Why Does My Child Get a Fever After Swimming?
Fever is the body’s way of fighting off infection, so one possibility is that your child might have picked up some bacteria or a virus from the pool water.
However, it’s not always about what’s in the water. Excessive sun exposure, especially without adequate sun protection, can also cause a condition known as sun fever. Symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, and headache.
Then there are non-infectious causes, like over-exertion or dehydration. Sometimes, kids forget to hydrate while having fun in the pool. Dehydration can lead to an increase in body temperature, causing a fever-like feeling.
What Other Symptoms Should I Watch Out For After Pool Activities?
- Skin Irritations: Pool water, particularly if over-chlorinated, can cause skin rashes or irritations. My friend’s son developed a mild rash after their pool pH level spiked. Watch for unusual redness or itchiness on your child’s skin after swimming.
- Ear Pain: Swimmer’s ear is a common infection caused by water remaining in the ear canal after swimming, leading to bacterial growth. It might be worth checking if your child complains of ear pain or if you notice any redness or swelling around the ears.
- Eye Redness and Irritation: Pools can also cause eye redness and irritation, particularly in chlorinated water. If your child complains of sore or red eyes after swimming, it could be due to the pool water.
- Respiratory Issues: Rarely inhaling pool vapors can cause respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. Remember when my youngest daughter developed a cough after a long pool day? It’s best to get your child seen by a healthcare professional if you notice any of these symptoms.
- Behavioral Changes: Watch out for any changes in your child’s behavior. It could be a sign of illness if they’re feeling unusually tired or not eating or drinking as usual.
It’s important to remember that other factors can also cause these symptoms, so don’t panic. However, if your child displays any of these symptoms after swimming, it’s worth being cautious and seeking medical advice.
In the next section, we’ll tackle how to handle such situations when they arise and what immediate actions should be taken if your child does swallow pool water.
Quick Action: What to Do When Your Child Swallows Pool Water
I remember when my youngest took her first big gulp of pool water. She was surprised, I was concerned, and we both learned a valuable lesson that day. Here’s what you can do when your child swallows pool water.
- Stay Calm and Monitor: Firstly, don’t panic. It’s common for kids to swallow a bit of pool water while splashing around. A small amount usually won’t cause any harm. Look for any immediate discomfort, such as coughing or choking.
- Encourage Fluid Intake: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fresh water afterward. This can help dilute any pool chemicals or bacteria that may have been ingested, reducing the chance of a tummy upset.
- Look for Symptoms: Monitor your child for any signs of illness in the days following the incident. Symptoms to watch out for include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever, which could indicate a recreational water illness. Remember the story of my son’s ear infection? Early detection can make a big difference.
If your child shows any signs of distress or falls ill, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention for My Child?
It’s important to remember that not all fevers need medical attention. For instance, if your child has a low-grade fever but is still energetic and drinking plenty of fluids, monitoring their condition closely at home might be best. This was the case when my daughter had a mild sun fever.
However, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention. If your child’s fever is high (above 102°F or 39°C) or lasts more than 24 hours, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Other symptoms to look out for include:
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Constant vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe earache
- Signs of dehydration include dry lips, less urination, or excessive sleepiness.
I can’t stress enough how vital it is to trust your instincts as a parent. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to seek help.
Remember, it’s perfectly okay to feel anxious or worried. A friend once shared how her son’s post-swim fever was due to a urinary tract infection. She felt guilty and worried, but the doctor reassured her that such incidents could occur and that how we respond to them matters.
Keep your pediatrician’s number handy, and don’t hesitate to call if you’re worried.
Tips to Prevent Unplanned Pool Water Consumption
As a dad, I’ve had to strike a balance between fostering their adventurous spirits and ensuring their safety. And that means reducing the risk of them swallowing pool water.
How Can I Minimize the Risk of My Child Swallowing Pool Water?
- Educate Your Children: The most effective way to prevent your kids from swallowing pool water is through education. From the first time my kids started swimming, I explained why it’s essential not to drink pool water. I kept it simple: “The water can have germs that might make you feel sick.” It’s important to reinforce this message every time they swim.
- Teach Proper Breathing Techniques: Enroll your child in swimming lessons where they’ll learn proper breathing techniques. My kids’ swimming instructor taught them to exhale through their mouths when their faces are in the water and inhale when they are out. It’s a simple but effective technique that minimizes the risk of swallowing water.
- Supervise Swimming Activities: This one might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Always keep an eye on your kids while they’re in the pool. My wife and I take turns ensuring that at least one of us is always poolside when the kids swim. This way, we can immediately correct them if they start to play in a way that could lead them to swallow water.
- Regular Pool Maintenance: Ensure your pool is well-maintained, and the water is treated correctly. Regular maintenance can reduce the number of harmful germs in the water.
- Invest in Suitable Swimming Aids: For younger children or those still learning to swim, investing in swimming aids can be beneficial. We found that using swim vests or floaties for our youngest helped keep his mouth above water, reducing the chance of swallowing it.
These strategies helped us feel more confident about our children’s safety around the pool. Remember, the goal is not to eliminate all risks— that’s nearly impossible. Instead, focus on managing them to create a safe and fun environment for your kids.
For more information on swimming aids, check out this guide I created on the essential pool safety gear you should have.
Let’s wrap things up and discuss finding the sweet spot between safety and enjoyment in the pool.
Conclusion
Owning a pool while having young children can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. It’s a delicate balance between ensuring safety while enjoying pool activities. The package includes regular pool maintenance, swimming lessons, and proper supervision.
By staying informed, proactive, and patient, we can keep our pools as sources of joy, not anxiety. After all, we’re here to make a splash in the safest way possible!
P.S. Seeking the must-have pool safety device? Check out my list of the best pool safety devices!
From pool alarms to personal flotation devices, this guide covers it all. Regardless if you’re securing an in-ground pool, an above-ground pool, or even a spa, here are the most effective pool safety devices you could get to protect your kids.