What is swimming pool poisoning?

Swimming pool poisoning is quite a common intoxication in Miami, Florida. It can occur because of mixing incompatible bleach products (bleach and ammonia), chlorine tablets, lack of appropriate protection, or equipment failure.

Exposure to high amounts of these compounds can cause severe afflictions. While being used for sanitation and also to prevent bacteria growth in the pool water, ingestion or inhalation of these chemicals can put a significant amount of stress on the human body. These cleaning substances containing acids and chlorine can cause painful symptoms throughout the body, like respiratory issues, digestive system symptoms, and circulatory system damage.

The most common swimming pool poisoning symptoms are:

• Abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Burning in the throat or esophagus
• Coughing
• Dyspnea
• Eyes and skin injuries
• Headache
• Low blood pressure
• Nausea
• Throat swelling
• Upper respiratory irritation
• Vomiting (sometimes blood)

Swallowing, inhaling, or even touching such toxic substances, depending on the amount you have been in contact with, can lead to long-term health issues, such as:

• Digestive troubles
• Breathing and swallowing difficulties
• Tissue necrosis
• Infection

What to do if exposed to chemical substances in the swimming pool

In case you or a family member experience these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical help:

• If the chemical substance is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
• If the toxic substance is swallowed and the patient's state still allows swallowing, give them water or milk.
• If the toxic substance was inhaled, move the victim to fresh air.
• If swimming pool disinfectants or other chemicals have injured you, you may be legally entitled to damages for your injury.

If you or a loved one have suffered a swimming pool-related injury, contact The Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary as soon as possible.