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What Is Pool Conjunctivitis?

A form of eye irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva (pink eye) acquired from swimming pool water, which can be caused by either infectious pathogens or chemical irritants.

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What Is Pool Conjunctivitis?

A form of eye irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva (pink eye) acquired from swimming pool water, which can be caused by either infectious pathogens or chemical irritants.

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Chemical Cause

Most common cause is non-infectious, irritative conjunctivitis, resulting from improper pH levels or excessive chlorine concentration in the pool, which strips the natural tear film.

Infectious Cause

Can also be caused by viral or bacterial pathogens present in the water (Adenovirus is common), especially in poorly maintained pools, leading to highly contagious infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms include redness, burning, stinging, excessive tearing, and a gritty feeling. Infectious types may also show discharge, eyelid swelling, and crusting.

How can I prevent the chemical type?

Wearing well-fitting swimming goggles and rinsing the eyes with fresh water or sterile saline immediately after leaving the pool can minimize exposure to chemicals.

Is the infectious type contagious?

Yes. If the conjunctivitis is viral or bacterial, it is highly contagious and can be spread through towel sharing or poor hand hygiene.

How soon after swimming does it occur?

Chemical irritation is usually immediate or occurs within a few hours. Viral or bacterial infection may take 2-7 days to manifest fully.