Abu Dhabi: Swimmers run the risk of contracting fungal infections and sunburn if they do not take adequate precautions, doctors have warned.
They must therefore wear protective footwear when out of the pool, and also apply waterproof sunscreen frequently.
“In moist environments, people who walk around barefoot can easily contract fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. These are painful and inconvenient, so it is best to wear anti-slip footwear,” advised Dr Mazen Al Taher, a derma-venereologist in the capital.
Viral infections can also occur in people who do not towel themselves dry after swimming. This is because the chlorine which is used to sanitise swimming pools kills bacteria in the water, not viruses. So viral infections can be transferred in the water from one swimmer to another, Dr Al Taher said.
Another common concern is the irritation from the chlorine used to sanitise swimming pools, which especially affects those with dry skin conditions, added Dr Senthil Prabahar, specialist dermatologist at Burjeel Hospital.
“Of course if you are particularly sensitive to the chlorine, it is best to avoid swimming pools altogether. If you have been in one, you must shower properly to get rid of the traces of chlorine, which can otherwise form a coating on the skin and remain for up to a week,” Dr Prabahar explained.
Vitamin C-based creams can also help soothe chlorine irritations, and prevent the chlorine from bonding with body proteins. In addition, swimming googles and swimcaps can help protect the eyes and hair.
Sunburn is also more common among swimmers as the chlorine increases sensitivity to harmful rays.
“So it is best to apply waterproof sunscreen 30 minutes before getting in the water, and to reapply it every two hours,” Dr Prabahar added.
