Asthma Treatments Online

Recent research published in the medical journal Pediatrics has given weight to the theory that chlorinated swimming pools can increase the incidence of asthma, allergic rhinitis and hayfever in those who are vulnerable to allergies.

The researchers examined more than 800 students aged between 13 and 18 who had been swimming in indoor chlorinated and unchlorinated pools.

The researchers found that children who were allergy sensitive were more likely to develop asthma and other allergies if they swam in chlorinated pools. Those who spent more than 1000 hours in chlorinated pools were up to 14.9 times more likely to have asthma and 3.5 times more likely to have allergic rhinitis. Children who were not allergy sensitive or who had swum only in pools solely disinfected with copper or silver ion-based sanitisers did not display asthma or respiratory symptoms.

Until now, swimming has been recommended for people who have asthma because the humid air is less likely to trigger a wheezing attack. The cross-sectional study shows children who are more prone to allergies can develop asthma, but it is still unclear as to whether or not it is directly related to chlorine exposure, says asthma expert Professor Guy Marks from the Woolcock Medical Institute.

“It would be better to avoid indoor pools, particularly ones that are heavily chlorinated, particularly in children who have a predisposition to asthma or allergies,” says Marks.

This is because children who are allergic are at much greater risk of developing asthma and they develop a type of asthma that is more severe and more persistent, he explains.

To minimise irritants in your pool, it is recommended that pool owners maintain it at the correct pH and free chlorine levels, and keep organic matter to a minimum by regularly cleaning the pool and filters, and ensuring high water circulation.

Source: www.abc.net.au