A temporary and irritating respiratory condition known as “chlorine cough” can develop after exposure to swimming pool water. This reaction is characterized by a dry, persistent cough and throat discomfort that occurs during or immediately following time spent in a chlorinated environment. Understanding the underlying chemical trigger is the first step toward finding effective solutions and preventing the irritation from happening again.
The Chemical Cause of Respiratory Irritation
The cough experienced near swimming pools is not caused by the chlorine disinfectant itself, but by chemical byproducts called chloramines. These volatile compounds form when free chlorine, added to kill germs, reacts with organic matter introduced into the water by swimmers. Organic substances like sweat, urine, skin cells, and cosmetics contain nitrogen compounds that bind with chlorine to create chloramines.
The most irritating byproduct is nitrogen trichloride, which readily off-gasses into the air just above the water surface. Because chloramine gas is heavier than air, it concentrates in the breathing zone, particularly in poorly ventilated indoor pools. Inhaling these airborne irritants leads to the inflammation of the mucosal lining in the nose, throat, and lungs. This irritation triggers the body’s reflexive mechanism to cough, attempting to clear the airways of the chemical presence.
Immediate Steps for Soothing the Airway
The first action to take when a cough begins is to leave the pool area immediately and move into a space with fresh, clean air. This removes the source of the chloramine exposure, allowing the respiratory system to begin recovery naturally. Once out of the pool, taking an immediate shower with soap is recommended to rinse residual chemicals and irritants from the skin and hair.
Moisturizing the irritated airway tissues helps reduce the dryness and burning sensation associated with the cough. Inhaling steam from a hot shower or using a humidifier soothes the inflamed throat and bronchial passages. Drinking extra water is also beneficial, as staying well-hydrated keeps the mucous membranes moist, supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
For localized relief, a saline nasal rinse can be used to flush irritants from the nasal and sinus cavities. Using a Neti pot or similar irrigation device provides mechanical removal of lingering chloramines and inflamed mucus. Additionally, sucking on throat lozenges or consuming a spoonful of honey offers temporary relief by coating the back of the throat and calming the coughing reflex.
Strategies for Prevention Before Swimming
Proactive measures focused on reducing the formation of chloramines are the most effective way to prevent chlorine cough entirely. The single most impactful action a swimmer can take is to shower thoroughly with soap before entering the pool. This pre-swim rinse removes the majority of organic contaminants—sweat, oils, and body products—that would otherwise react with chlorine to create irritating chloramines.
Reducing organic material allows the chlorine to focus on disinfection, maintaining water quality and minimizing byproduct formation. Another element is wearing a nose clip, which acts as a simple physical barrier. This prevents the inhalation of surface air and water droplets containing chloramines directly into the nasal passages, especially during intense swimming where breathing rates are higher.
For pool operators, maintaining proper water chemistry is primary, as is ensuring adequate ventilation, especially in indoor facilities. Chloramine gas accumulation necessitates an effective Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system designed to move fresh air across the water surface and exhaust the heavier, contaminated air. Maintaining the pool’s pH level within the recommended range also ensures the chlorine operates efficiently, which helps to keep chloramine levels low.
When the Cough Requires Professional Medical Attention
While chlorine cough is typically a temporary irritation that resolves on its own within a few hours, certain symptoms indicate a need for professional medical evaluation. If the coughing persists for more than a day or two after leaving the pool environment, it should be addressed by a doctor. A persistent cough may suggest a more significant inflammation or the development of a secondary respiratory issue.
Symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath require immediate medical attention. These can signal a more severe reaction like chemical-induced airway hyperresponsiveness or an exacerbation of underlying asthma. Also, if the cough is accompanied by fever or a burning sensation in the airways that does not quickly subside, consulting a healthcare provider is prudent.