Water is a symbol of purity, but this seems hard to believe. However, people around the globe are suffering from the present water problems.
Water problems include water-borne illnesses such as diarrhea, hepatitis A, and cholera. Due to the uncontrolled increase in these illnesses, the government and citizens are seeking ways to treat their water.
One of the well-known water treatments the government uses to treat the water supplied to its citizens is chlorination.
Chlorine is a hazardous substance often described as having a strong choking scent. It is poisonous and corrosive. When combined with other chemicals, this chemical purifies metals and bleaches materials and is mixed to produce another chemical. It also helps disinfect water.
Water chlorination involves mixing chlorine and water. It helps prevent the spread of waterborne illnesses, such as typhoid, cholera, and dysentery.
Disinfection through chlorination can be harmful in some circumstances. Chlorine reacts with naturally occurring sediments in the water to produce disinfection byproducts (DBPs).
The effects depend on the duration of exposure to chemicals and the amount ingested. For example, ingesting large amounts of chlorinated water could slow down regular brain activity.
Also, develop heart diseases, liver or kidney cancer, unconsciousness, or even death. Although chlorinating water seems to be an effective method, not everyone can tolerate the aggressiveness of such chemicals. It may even become hazardous rather than helpful. The most common complaint among the majority is the development of chlorine allergies.
What is Chlorine?
Chlorine is a natural element used in industry and household cleaning products. It is one of the ten most highly produced chemicals in the United States. At room temperature, chlorine is a gas with a yellow-green color and a pungent odor similar to bleach.
When shipped, chlorine stored in pressurized containers is amber-colored. It is not usually flammable but may form explosive compounds when exposed to other chemicals.
Chlorine, whether in liquid or gaseous form, can be poisonous in small quantities. However, it is abundant in its chloride form and is found as salt on the earth.
Many living things, including humans, require chlorine, which must be limited to prevent it from becoming hazardous.
How is Chlorine Used?
Chlorine has multiple uses, including disinfecting water, treating sewage, and sanitizing industrial waste. It is also a bleaching agent used in the production of paper and cloth. It’s also used in cleaning products such as household bleach. Chlorine is used to prepare chlorides, chlorinated solvents, pesticides, synthetic rubbers, polymers, and refrigerants.
How Are People Exposed to Chlorine?
Due to its wide use in industrial and commercial locations, chlorine can be accidentally spilled or released. Even taking a long bath or shower increases a person’s risk of exposure.
Chlorine in water can also be exposed through a deliberate terrorist attack. It may enter the body through skin absorption or the ears, nose, and eyes.
The most hazardous route of exposure is inhalation of chlorine gas. Because chlorine gas is heavier than air, it tends to accumulate in low-lying areas unless wind or other conditions create air movement.
Exposure may also result from skin or eye contact with chlorine gas or from swallowing food or water contaminated with chlorine.
3 Common Exposure to Chlorine:
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Breathing in the fumes of chlorine gas
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Drinking and eating
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Absorption through the skin from water and the air
One should note that people sitting near the pool sunbathing or socializing can still be exposed to chlorine.
Non-swimmers have tested positive for high trichloramine levels- an irritating odor found as a disinfection by-product in chlorinated swimming pools. This serves as a strong caution to people regarding the clear dangers of chlorine exposure.
What Happens to Chlorine in the Body?
What are the Immediate Health Effects of Chlorine Exposure?
Harmful chlorine exposure from inhalation can manifest in the body in seconds or minutes. The following are the most common symptoms of chlorine exposure:
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Skin irritation
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Eye irritation
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Cough
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Sore throat
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Difficulty breathing
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Chest tightness
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Wheezing
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Airway irritation
The severity of the health effects depends on the route of exposure, the dose, and the duration of exposure to chlorine. Research has shown that prolonged exposure to chlorine leads to the production of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are carcinogenic and can cause tremendous damage to cells.
Breathing high levels of chlorine may cause fluid build-up in the lungs, leading to pulmonary edema, where the lungs swell due to the excess fluid trapped. This development may be delayed for several hours after exposure to chlorine. Additionally, contact with compressed liquid chlorine can cause frostbite to the skin and eyes.
What is Chlorine Allergy?
Chlorine allergy is a fourth type characterized by an unusual reaction to internal or external chlorine. Its symptoms are delayed, making it difficult for some to realize they already suffer from it.
When you look into your glass of crystal-clear water or at the sparkly swimming pool and think it is chlorinated, you immediately think it’s cleaner than tap water. However, chlorine, a highly reactive chemical, may not benefit everyone, especially at higher doses.
You can’t be allergic to chlorine, yet you can be delicate or have a reaction. When you are sensitive, would quitting swimming be a good idea? No, rather, you should discover and treat the reason for your sensitivity and discover a remedy.
If you believe a chlorine allergy may be related to basic asthma, work out exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) or bronchospasm. Other hidden sensitivity issues may cause your runny nose.
Difference Between Chlorine Allergy and Chlorine Sensitivity
Chlorine Sensitivity
Chlorine sensitivity occurs when the skin experiences redness, tenderness, or itching. In some cases, a rash, hives, or crusting develops.
Also called chlorine rash, this red, itchy rash appears after exposure to chlorinated pools or hot tubs. It can seem raised and scaly, and the skin can be swollen or tender. In some cases, hives may also develop.
Although it is mistaken as a ‘chlorine allergy,’ you don’t have a true chlorine allergy but are rather sensitive to it. A chlorine rash is just a reaction to your sensitivity to chlorine.
When you spend a lot of time in the pool, you are a prime candidate for developing a chlorine rash: the more exposure, the greater the chance of developing it. People responsible for adding chlorine to the pool may develop a rash if some of the chlorine comes into contact with their skin.
Some people are more sensitive to chlorine than others. People with eczema or psoriasis may be more susceptible to developing chlorine rash because their skin is already sensitized.
Symptoms of Chlorine Sensitivity
Although its symptoms can vary in intensity from person to person, they may be similar to those of other types of rashes caused by irritants.
Chlorine rash symptoms can include:
- Itchy, red, swollen, or scaly patches of skin
- Dry or chapped skin that may grow worse with repeated exposure to chlorine
- Burning, stinging, or itching skin
- The skin may crack or bleed after repeated contact with chlorine
- Blisters or sores
If chlorine exposure continues or is not treated promptly, symptoms will worsen.
Chlorine Allergy
Chlorine allergy often develops from chlorine sensitivity and is more serious, but it can be treated with medical care.
According to Dr. Ryu of Midwest Allergy Asthma and Immunology Associates, individuals with skin, respiratory, or nasal issues often experience chlorine sensitivity. These respiratory problems may present as cough and worsen shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness.
When these symptoms occur, you have developed an allergy to chlorine. See an allergist immediately to rule out exercise-induced asthma.
Nasal symptoms include a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching, which can be caused by the irritant nature of chlorine or seasonal allergies.
Studies have found that elite swimmers have increased airway inflammation and airway hyper-responsiveness (constriction of airways) due to chronic chlorine exposure. Dr. Ryu suggests undergoing allergy testing and, if the results are negative, using a nose clip when swimming may be beneficial.
When you experience allergy-like symptoms, such as asthma or exercise-induced asthma, consulting an allergist can help you manage your symptoms and continue swimming.
Other Causes of Chlorine Allergy
Chlorine in water, such as in swimming pools, can be converted into another substance called chloramines. Chloramine results from the reaction of chlorine with substances such as sweat, urine, and oils in water.
Some chloramines are irritants to the skin and eyes. Even chloramines can be released into the air around the pool, affecting your nose, throat, and lungs. This is noticed when you smell the typical “pool odor” common in many indoor swimming facilities.
The facility must be well-ventilated to expel airborne chloramines and to draw fresh air. Pool staff must monitor the chlorine level and regulate it to control chloramine exposure.
Effects of Chlorine Allergy
Due to the severe problems with the water, the higher authorities chlorinate the water so that the residents can enjoy a cleaner version of it. To be consumed for their daily needs and chores.
Though we are assured that the chlorine in our water is not harmful, how can we take for granted the thought that poison or hazardous chemicals will always be harmful? No matter how small the dosage, it will surely affect our bodies in some way.
It would fulfill its mission to clean the water; yet, when you consider how effectively it could clean metals or piping, you wonder how much more it could do when applied to your body—or, worse, when ingested.
The symptoms of chlorine allergy may be considered as its effect. A person suffering from this allergy may be affected internally or externally.
External symptoms include eye irritation, dry skin, and sneezing. They can also include rashes, redness, or severe skin lesions.
Internal symptoms, however, are more worrying than external ones. It includes trouble breathing, chest tightness, a stuffy nose, constant coughing, nausea, and other respiratory issues. Long-term effects include lower sperm count, kidney problems, a higher risk of miscarriage, and liver problems.How to Treat a Chlorine Allergy Attack
Whenever you suspect a serious allergic reaction, look for urgent emergency care. Skin sensitivity is normally treated by washing the affected area with clean water. To attempt to remove any hints of the rest of the irritant, i.e., cleaning item or pool water.
Similarly, you should see your doctor about your allergy if:
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You aren’t sure if your allergy was brought about by chlorine.
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You have extreme hives or hives that won’t disappear with treatment.
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Any serious allergic reaction permits emergency treatment.
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Your rash isn’t improving with home treatment.
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Your rash is spreading, deteriorating, or appears to be extreme.
Home Remedies for Chlorine Allergy Effects
It may be better to first treat chlorine allergy at home to help observe its effects. To soothe the inflamed skin, you can try these self-care approaches.
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Avoid scratching. Trim your nails. After that, if you still can’t help but scratch it, cover it with a dressing or cloth.
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Apply a wet or cool compress. Moisten soft washcloths, then hold them on the rash area for 15-30 minutes. This soothes your skin and the itch. Repeat as many times as needed in a day.
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Soak in a comfortably cool bath. Sprinkle the water with baking soda or an oatmeal-based bath product.
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Protect your hands. When applying treatment, please wash your hands clean and dry them well. Moisturizers should also be applied to the affected area throughout the day. If you can’t help but choose gloves based on what you protect your hands from. For instance, plastic gloves lined with cotton are good if your hands are often wet.
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Use an oatmeal bath. In addition to their moisturizing properties, oats can also relieve itchiness. They are anti-inflammatory and antioxidants that relieve roughness, dryness, and itchiness. Some of the oils in oatmeal work together to help repair skin. Oleic, linoleic, and avenanthramides help reduce cytokines, proteins that cause inflammation.
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Use aloe vera. It possesses healing properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant effects. Cut the leaves to get the gel, and apply it to a clean, washed affected area. This soothes the irritated and itchy skin.
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Apply coconut oil. It is a natural moisturizer high in saturated fats with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Virgin (unprocessed) coconut oil is best because it has potent healing properties. It’s safe to apply to the skin or scalp. However, some people are allergic to it. Apply it to your inner arm. If no allergic reactions occur, you may continue to apply it.
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Use baking soda. Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile household remedy that can help soothe rashes, poison ivy, and bug bites.
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Use tea tree oil or other plant oils. This traditional herb used by locals is a common antiseptic and anti-inflammatory remedy. To extract it, the plant is steam-distilled. This can be diluted by mixing with other oils, such as olive or coconut oil, or even with your moisturizer. Studies have shown the antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil. Other plant oils that can be used include chamomile, jojoba oil, argan oil, and sunflower oil.
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Apple cider vinegar is a common household remedy that relieves itchiness. It has numerous benefits, including antimicrobial properties. Dilute it with water to relieve itchiness on your skin (even your scalp).
How to Eliminate Chlorine in Water
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First, avoid chlorine in any way possible. If you have a pool, don’t put chlorine to kill bacteria. Instead, use natural products whenever possible.
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Consider installing a water purification system in your home to ensure clean, safe water. It can help eliminate toxins before the water is used for cooking, cleaning, showering, and bathing.
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Another help is to use water filters in sinks and bathtubs. Water filters are an excellent way to protect the entire family from the effects of chlorine exposure.
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After being exposed to chlorine, rinse or cleanse your body immediately. Organic or all-natural soaps and detergents are better for your skin, and many non-toxic soaps are available.
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Always drink purified water. The oxygenated purified water that can provide the body with oxygen is better.
Get Rid of Chlorine: The Berkey Water Filtration System
Since most nations use chlorination of water, what could you do? As someone who wants clean water and a healthy body. They say prevention is better than a cure. We must take effort to prevent chlorinated water from entering our bodies or skin.
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