Swimming pools

[Currygirl]

I am wanting to get in the swimming pool with grandson but I do ha e pulmonary fibrosis and wondering if the chlorine was bad for me ?x

[peege]

You could go along to watch one day to see if chlorine affects you, if it does you'll be dressed and ready for a quick exitI recall a member ages ago who swam whilst on O2, someone wheeled the tank alongside the pool so it was okay for her. Some pools are Ozone or Saline rather than chlorine. Ill keep my fingers crossed for you. My grandchildren have lessons at different times, I love to watch & encourage from the side, my only issues are in winter as it's so very hot with little ventilation (could be the chlorine as well, I don't know but I do know I cant breath) other times are ok when the windows/doors are open. Hope you make it. P

[Bevvy]

I agree with peege that unless you actually go to a pool and see if/how it affects you, you won’t know. I don’t have PF but rather COPD but many people with COPD also can’t go to a swimming pool. However I go with no breathing issues. I limit my time in the water to maximum of 20 mins but that is due to other health issues rather than affecting my breathing.

[Currygirl in reply to Bevvy]

Thank you for all your replies xx

[Homely2]

I have severe asthma, so approached my local pool with caution, as I remembered the pools of my youth, with lots of chlorine.

It all worked fine though and I love it. My only issue is leaving the pool area is quite a change in atmosphere so causes minor asthma grumbles.

[Mons]

I have scarring on the lungs and asthma after being in ICU with covid in 2020. Doctor suggested I try swimming for fitness. It did not work for me as it set off my breathing problems which wasn’t surprising as I have difficulty in the shower as well. I would suggest you try sitting round the pool for a while before you venture in for a swim with your grandson. Most people don’t have problems and it’s a great way of exercising and also great fun for you with your grandson. Hope it all goes well for you. x

[Karenanne61]

Chlorine affects my breathing badly but we are all different. As suggested, just go and watch and see how you feel. Sadly I could only watch my grandson for a few minutes at a time.

[Caspiana]

It can definitely cause irritation but it also depends if it is an indoor or outdoor pool. In outdoor pools, the chlorine dissipates quickly, but indoor pools keep it more contained. This chlorine concentration can be a problem. If you can , I would suggest getting advice from your doctor. If you can't get advice I would say try but if you start coughing or have a burning feeling in your throat, the sensible thing would be to stop 🤗