If you are allergic to chlorine then you suffer from allergies Type 4 also called cell-mediated allergy or delayed.  The most common symptom is an itchy rash in the armpits and groin area. While bromine is a milder for of chlorine, it is still responsible for skin allergy symptoms in hot tub and spa users.

Scientists consider chlorine one of the most toxic elements found in nature and yet the number of people allergic to chlorine is extremely small. Eye irritation, dry skin, coughing, sneezing, runny nose or itchy nose may be symptoms of an intolerance to chlorine instead of a real allergy.

Some groups use bromine instead of chlorine. Bromine is used in most hot tubs because it can withstand heat better than chlorine. More people may develop an allergic reaction to bromine than chlorine, but still considered very rare.

In chlorine treated pools the chlorine reacts with other substances. Chemicals, such as the fans in the land, which creates chloramines compounds. Always shower before swimming in a chlorinated pool to stop this chemical reaction occurs in the pores of the skin you.

The small white spots that may develop on the skin after bathing is not an allergic reaction to chlorine. White spots are caused by a type of yeast infections and needs to be treated with a topical medication. Always shower after swimming and use a shampoo anti anti chlorine soap and chlorine.

Many people develop stuffy nose after swimming in a public pool or hit tub. This is commonly called swimmer’s sinusitis is caused by getting water on your breasts. The best treatment for swimmer’s sinusitis is to drink plenty of water to keep the mucus thin and allow the sinusitis to drain properly. Some people find that using a nasal spray after swimming will also relive some of the symptoms. If the problem persists, see a health professional because persistent sinus infection could lead to a more serious problem.

Another treatment for swimmer’s sinusitis is to use eucalyptus oil in boiling water or Olbas and inhale the steam that is generated. This treatment is very good for any type of stuffy nose due to a cold, flu or allergy problems. Both readily diffuse in the air and can provide benefits to nasal and bronchial areas.

If you are allergic to chlorine and then find a good health care professional before beginning any type of home treatment.

Always consult your physician before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and should not be construed as medical advice.

Related Post: Chlorine Allergy.

About the Author: David Cowley has created numerous articles on allergies. www.allergies-team.com

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Chlorine/Salt/Bromine FREE swimming pool/spa water

Hot Tub Allergies

Hot tub related allergies are on the rise as more and more people enjoy this relaxing past-time.  Most people believe the skin rash or eruption may be due to excess bacteria found in the water from poor care. However, most rashes are due to improper pH levels; too high or too low can actually irritate the skin.

Since hot tubs do not have the water capacity of a swimming pool, they do not generally require the use of strong chlorine based products but rather a far milder amine compound known as bromine.  It is believed that up to 3% of people may be allergic to bromine or chlorine.

Even though it is quite rare, there is a final possibility that a hot tub which has a high level of turbidity (suspended solids) may have a bacteria nown as a pseudomona.  This bacteria can cause skin rashes after just one exposure and can typically be treated with a topical antibiotic ointment. The primary reason a bacterial infection of the skin caused by sitting in a hot tub is so rare is because the water will almost always appear too dirty to sit in.

Water should be changed out regularly according to use or at least every six months and bromine tablets should be added to the tub after heavy use. It is also recommended that persons refrain from applying liquid skin lotions and soaps at least one hour before sitting in a hot tub since they will rinse off and contaminate the water causing more frequent change outs.

Related Post: Chlorine Allergy.

About the Author: Steve (a.k.a. The Spa Doctor), Los Angeles, CA

Doctors See A Sudden Rash Of Hot Tub Allergies