Associated symptoms of swimming pool conjunctivitis

The typical symptoms of swimming pool conjunctivitis are initially the same as those that occur with normal conjunctivitis. The disease begins about 4-14 days after infection – usually with the development of redness and swelling of the eye. In most cases only one eye is affected at first.

Frequently, a strong foreign body sensation also occurs, which is accompanied by severe itching. In addition, swimming pool conjunctivitis is often accompanied by increased tears and a purulent mucous accumulation of fluid. Due to the formation of pus, the eyes can stick to the eyelashes, especially at night when they are closed for a long time.

Swimming pool conjunctivitis can also often cause pain in the eyes. In very pronounced cases, photophobia (photophobia) and constriction of the eyes can occur, as the symptoms worsen in strong light. In the course of the disease, follicles form on the conjunctiva in the area of the eyelids, which are often grey-red and corn-shaped, and lead to swelling of the lymph nodes around the eye. In swimming pool conjunctivitis, the eyes should be rubbed as little as possible, as the bacteria can otherwise be transferred to the hands, thus increasing the risk of infection for other people.Without treatment, both eyes may be affected over time and the symptoms may last for weeks or months.

How contagious is swimming pool conjunctivitis?

How contagious swimming pool conjunctivitis is also depends on the path of infection. Chlamydia can be transmitted directly from person to person, but infection via liquids and soiled surfaces is also possible. In the case of direct transmission, the risk of infection is very high.

If transmission occurs through liquids, the risk of infection depends on how many bacteria are present in the liquid. The greatest risk of infection is therefore direct transmission, for example during sexual intercourse, or subsequent contact between hands and eyes contaminated with bacteria. To prevent infection, strict hand hygiene should be maintained and each person should use their own towels. In the case of a known infection of the genital area, sexual intercourse should also only take place with condoms, so that the general risk of infection can be minimized.