When we think about pools, especially having one at home, it’s hard not to associate them with moments of warmth, friends gathered, and lots of fun, isn’t it? However, did you know that if you take a dip in a pool that hasn’t been cleaned and treated properly, you can face various problems? Yes, there are several risks in not treating a pool.

We don’t want anyone’s swim to turn into a bad experience. Therefore, treating the pool properly is the main solution to avoid the spread of diseases and compromising health. After all, no one deserves to have their vacation interrupted for unplanned treatments.

Curious about the main diseases you can contract if you don’t treat a pool or enter one that doesn’t have the proper hygiene conditions? Come with us!

External Otitis

Did you know that you can develop external otitis if you swim in the pool and water enters your ear? It occurs because there is a buildup of water inside the ear canal, which promotes the proliferation of numerous bacteria and fungi. The main symptoms include Itching; Pain; Temporary hearing loss; Fever; Headache; and Vomiting.

We understand that it’s impossible to prevent external otitis even if the water is clean. So, imagine if it is not treated properly? Certainly, the accumulation of contaminated fluid in the ear will be much worse. Another detail is that dirty water helps dissolve earwax, making the sensitive skin of the ear canal more susceptible to bacteria and fungi.

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicle that begins in the hair follicles. It is typically caused by a fungal or bacterial infection. Here are the main symptoms: Small pimples (with or without pus); Formation of boils; Large red areas; and Intense pain.

When a pool is not well-maintained, contamination by bacteria that can cause folliculitis can occur. Usually, it heals on its own. Only in more severe cases is treatment with a dermatologist necessary—because in these situations, it can lead to permanent hair loss. Therefore, always be vigilant for symptoms.

Diarrhea

There are several diseases that have diarrhea as a symptom, characterized by at least two watery and inconsistent bowel movements per day. It can last for days and cause dehydration due to a significant loss of fluid in the body. Isolated cases of diarrhea can be caused by a person ingesting contaminated water in a pool. After all, even in small amounts, it may have come into contact with a virus or bacteria. It’s essential to consider that a virus or bacteria can survive for up to fifteen days if a pool is not properly treated.

Ringworm

Ringworm is an infection caused by a fungus and can affect the hair, skin, and nails. There are various types, and typically, it requires consulting a doctor who will recommend the best treatment. The main symptoms include Itching; Redness; Spots; Fluid-filled blisters; Peeling; and Pain.

Moreover, it’s worth noting that the development of fungi that cause ringworm and some bacteria find ideal conditions in the heat and humidity in environments like the pool. Thus, care and cleanliness are crucial. In fact, individuals with ringworm should refrain from entering pools.

Cryptosporidiosis

One of the primary diseases that can be acquired in pools and poorly maintained hot tubs is cryptosporidiosis, caused by the Cryptosporidium sp. parasite. Therefore, individuals who frequent public pools and/or those with poor maintenance conditions may contract the disease. Check out the main symptoms: Nausea; Weight loss; Abdominal pain; Diarrhea; Joint pain; Headache; Eye pain; Fever.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an extremely contagious disease caused by an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, covering the white part of the eyes. Symptoms include Itching; Redness; Tearing; Discharge; Crusts around the eyes. It is one of the most common diseases transmitted in pools because it is easily transmissible and can be caused by an excess of chlorine in the water.

Treating the pool is the guarantee that it has the perfect conditions to provide fun and health for your family and friends. Therefore, keeping it clean throughout the year is essential to prevent people from contracting diseases. Most of the diseases we mentioned are easily treatable. However, prevention is always better, right?