The Joys and Risks of Swimming in Lakes
Swimming in a lake can be one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a hot summer day. The cool blue waters beckon people of all ages to take a dip or go for a swim. Lakes are often surrounded by scenic landscapes and offer a peaceful natural setting for swimming and aquatic activities.
However, before diving head first into your nearest lake, it's important to understand the potential health risks that exist. Lakes contain living organisms, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa and more. Some of these can cause mild to serious illnesses if swallowed or exposed to open wounds or cuts. Being aware of these risks and taking proper precautions can help ensure your lake swimming adventures are safe and healthy.
Risk of Exposure to Germs and Parasites
Lakes, unlike swimming pools which use chemicals like chlorine to sanitize the water, are natural bodies of water. They contain various types of bacteria, viruses, parasites and other germs from runoff pollution, animal waste, and infected swimmers. Some common illnesses people can develop from swimming in contaminated lake water include:
- E. coli infection
- Swimmer's ear
- Skin rashes
- Gastroenteritis
- Cryptosporidiosis
- Giardiasis
The presence of these germs and parasites depends on various environmental factors. However, the risk tends to rise with increased number of swimmers, storm runoffs, and presence of wildlife near the lake.
Difference From Swimming in Chlorinated Pools
Unlike swimming pools, lakes do not contain disinfectants like chlorine to kill germs. The EPA regulates, monitors and enforces strict standards for public pools. However, no federal agency regulates lake water quality on an ongoing basis. Some state or local authorities may test lake waters periodically for contamination. But bacteria levels can change frequently based on environmental conditions.
Additionally, the turbid or cloudy nature of most lakes can shelter disease causing microbes. And the bottom sediment of lakes contain more pathogens than water alone. During swimming activities that stir up the sediment like wading or diving, these bugs can reintroduce into the water.
Precautions to Take While Swimming in Lakes
Don't let all these warnings scare you away completely from swimming in lakes! With adequate precautions, you can certainly dip your toes in lake waters without getting sick. Here are some tips to stay healthy and safe:
Check Advisories Before Swimming
Find out if authorities have issued any warnings or beach closures at your lake destination due to high bacteria levels. Some lakes routinely monitor and test popular swimming areas. They may advise people not to swim if measures exceed the accepted standard.
Avoid Areas With Runoff Discharges
Stay away from places in the lake with visible runoffs from surrounding lands, pipes or streams entering the water. These are prime culprits for contaminants after rainfall. Avoid swimming for 3 days after heavy rain to allow the lake to flush out pollution.
Do Not Drink Any Lake Water
No matter how clean the lake looks, do not ever drink the water. Not even if you are very thirsty. The various parasites, bacteria and viruses can cause gastrointestinal distress. Stay hydrated by bringing your own drinking water.
Take a Cleansing Shower Afterwards
After exiting the lake, be sure to take a warm shower with soap. Thoroughly wash your body, shampoo hair, and use an antibacterial cleanser. This helps rinse away any germs that may have attached on your skin or hair while swimming.
Rinse Ears With Clean Water
Use rubbing alcohol ear drops after swimming to prevent painful swimmer's ear infections. Tilt and shake each ear canal to drain out trapped lake water. Then rinse with clean water to wash out remnants of lake water.
What to Do If You Get Sick After Lake Swimming
If you unfortunately do get sick with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, fever or rashes after swimming in a lake then be sure to:
- Drink plenty of fluids like fruit juices, coconut water or hydration supplements to recover lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration.
- Get lots of rest until symptoms resolve.
- See your doctor if condition persists beyond 48 hours or worsens despite home care.
- Inform the health department about the illness to help them monitor that lake’s water quality.
Lake Water Illness Prevention Starts With You
Practicing good hygiene and using common sense are the best ways to stay healthy while swimming in lakes. Avoid swallowing lake water or submerging your head. And teach children not to splash water on each other. Be vigilant about cuts or broken skin and avoid swimming with open wounds. Also shower immediately after exiting lake waters.
Following these tips diligently will help minimize the risk of getting sick from swimming in lakes. So don’t let fear of germs stop your from enjoying the pleasures of lake water activities under the sun!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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