That “pool smell” you love? It’s not pure chlorine. It’s actually chloramines, a chemical formed when chlorine meets sweat, pee, and dirt from our bodies. Gross, but fascinating.
Normal Chlorine Levels Blood at Michael Robin blog
Breathing in those chloramines can irritate your lungs, especially if you’re doing deep breaths while swimming laps. It’s why your chest might feel tight or you start coughing after a long swim in an indoor pool.
For most healthy people, this is just a minor annoyance. Your lungs are pretty forgiving. But for folks with asthma or sensitive airways, it can be a real trigger. Ventilation is key—outdoor pools are usually easier on the breathing.
Your Eyes: The Red Light Special
Red, stinging eyes after swimming? We’ve all been there. The myth is that it’s from too much chlorine, but the truth is more interesting.
High levels of chlorine actually break down the tear film that protects your eyes. Then, when chloramines form, they are what really cause the burning sensation and redness. It’s like a chemical tug-of-war on your eyeballs.
Wearing goggles is the simplest hack. It’s not just about seeing underwater—it’s about giving your eyes a vacation from the chemical reaction.
CHEMICAL SAFETY
