With the return of sunny days, the desire to cool off becomes irresistible. And what could be better than a swimming pool plunge to entertain young and old? But before enjoying the joys of swimming, some rules of prudence are essential. Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, recalls the right reflexes to adopt to avoid accidents.
Before throwing yourself in the water, knowing the risks is essential
Infections, irritations, accidents … whether it takes place in a swimming pool in the open air or covered, “All swimming has certain risks“warns the medical director of True Medical.
Bacterial and fungal infections
When water is around 25 ° C, bacteria multiply very quickly. The swimmers may thus be exposed to:
- Mycosis and viruses: athlete’s foot, plantar warts … “The warts get caught especially on wet floors – the carrying of tap dancing is therefore recommended”;
- Urinary or genital infections, “Linked to prolonged humidity”;
- Otitis: “The otitis of the swimmer is due to the stagnant water in the ear”;
- gastroenteritis, “If the water is contaminated by germs like E. coli or cryptosporidium”.
Skin and eye irritations
Several elements can accelerate the development of skin and eye irritation.
- Chlorine: “It can cause various inconveniences, such as dry skin, itching or red eyes”;
- Urine and sweat: “They react with chlorine, forming chloramines, known for their irritating effect on the airways.”
Physical risks
Finally, near the basins, physical risks are not negligible: “Sliding on wet floors, drowning – especially in children – as well as potential cuts or injuries caused by tiling edges or ceramic bursts”, underlines Dr Gérald Kierzek.
The essential precautions for each stage of swimming
Faced with these multiple risks, prudence is to be put before, during and after swimming, confirms the medical director of True Medical.
Before entering the water
Several good health reflexes must be adopted.
- A soapned shower. “Compulsory to eliminate sweat, creams and bacteria”;
- Forget swimming in the event of an open wound: “The risk of infection is real”;
- Zap the “shaving” step just before swimming. “Microcoupures promote infections”.
During swimming
During swimming, once again, caution is in order.
- Do not swallow the water. “At risk if not to catch gastroenteritis”;
- Wear a bath cap, “which limits the propagation of microbes”;
- Protect children: “Think of the watertight layers for the little ones and, of course, be sure to monitor them constantly “.
After swimming
Finally, the exit from the swimming pool should not be synonymous with relaxation. Dr. Gérald Kierzek rather invites to remain vigilant.
- Rinse in clear water to eliminate any chlorine residue;
- Carefully dry the skin folds (armpits, between the toes) “To avoid yeast infection”;
- Use ear drops, “Especially if you are sensitive to ear infections”;
- Finally, hydrate your skin skin “To counter the drying effect of chlorine”.
In this way, you can fully enjoy the pleasures of swimming!