Your throat likely hurts after visiting a waterpark due to the presence of chloramines, which are irritating chemical compounds formed in the water.
What are Chloramines?
Chloramines are not the same as chlorine, though they are related. They form when chlorine, used to disinfect the water, reacts with organic matter brought into the pool by swimmers. This organic matter includes things like:
- Urine
- Sweat
- Dead skin cells
- Feces
- Lotions
How Chloramines Cause Throat Irritation
Chloramines are volatile compounds, meaning they readily evaporate and become airborne. When you breathe in air containing chloramines, they can irritate your respiratory system, specifically:
- Throat: Causing soreness, scratchiness, and pain.
- Lungs: Potentially leading to coughing or difficulty breathing, especially for individuals with asthma or other respiratory sensitivities.
- Eyes: Often causing redness and irritation.
The enclosed or semi-enclosed nature of many indoor waterparks can exacerbate the problem because the chloramines are more concentrated in the air.
What Can You Do?
While waterparks strive to maintain safe water quality, you can take steps to minimize your exposure to chloramines and reduce throat irritation:
- Shower before entering the water: This helps remove some of the organic matter that reacts with chlorine.
- Avoid swallowing the water: Minimize exposure by keeping your mouth closed as much as possible when submerged.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to soothe the throat.
- Shower after swimming: This helps remove any remaining chloramines from your skin and hair.
- Consider using saline nasal spray: This can help to moisturize your nasal passages and throat, reducing irritation.
- Avoid waterparks if you have respiratory sensitivities: If you are prone to asthma or other breathing problems, waterparks may not be the best environment for you.
- Speak to park management: If you are concerned about the air or water quality, report it to the waterpark staff. They can check the chemical balance and take corrective action.
In conclusion, throat irritation after visiting a waterpark is usually a result of exposure to chloramines, a byproduct of chlorine reacting with organic matter in the water. Taking preventative measures can help reduce your risk of experiencing this discomfort.
