Recreational Water Illness - How to Swim Safely

June 30, 2008 by Tammy

Swimming is a great way to escape from those hot summer days, but before going for a dive, be sure to know the facts! Every time you swim, you put yourself at serious risk for RWI, better known as recreational water illness.

Each year, 10,000 RWI cases of diarrhea and 6.2 million cases of swimmer’s ear occur and those rates are nearly double what they were 10 years ago. For people who need the exercise of swimming, this terrifying fact can keep them away from the only exercise they will do!

In addition to rising rates of RWI, with the rising rates of childhood obesity, a fear of physical activity is the last thing that anyone needs! Luckily, for cases of RWI there are solutions. The biggest solution is chlorinating the water, but completely drying ears and wearing a swimmer’s cap are good suggestions as well.

Many frequent swimmers suggest the “Take and Tug” method for cleaning out ears. Grab the ear by either the side or the lobe and give it a good tug. If done correctly, this will act as a little cork and let any standing water trickle out. Use your towel to dry it further.

But now you are probably wondering what illnesses do you need protection from exactly? Well, let’s go through a couple of the biggest risks.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Leads to: Swimmer’s Ear and Skin Rashes

Cryptosporidium, Giardia lamblia, Shigella, and E. coli
Leads to: Diarrhea

Cercarial dermatitis (Swimmer’s Itch)
Symptoms: tingling, burning, or itching of the skin, small reddish pimples, and/or small blisters that appear within minutes to days after swimming in contaminated water
Leads to: Blisters and Rashes

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Leads to: Skin Rashes

Now all of these illnesses are typically found in lakes, oceans, poorly maintained swimming pools or hot tubs. Not all swimming locations are unsafe, so don’t be afraid. It is just important to be informed. A swimming pool is meant for fun, so get out there and enjoy yourself. Just remember these swimming tips and dive safely!