Signs & Symptoms to Allergies From Chlorine

Chlorine is an element which is classified as a halogen and is primarily used as a cleanser and sanitizer for swimming pools. The chemical irritates many people's skin, causing them to think they have a chlorine allergy. A true allergy to chlorine is actually quite rare; if you believe, based on the symptoms explained below, that you have a chlorine allergy, you should visit your doctor for a diagnosis.

Eye Symptoms

• Anyone's eyes are usually irritated by prolonged exposure to chlorine. However, a person with a chlorine allergy will have swollen eyes and a severe burning or itching feeling, which is very different from the basic irritation many people experience. In some cases, an allergic person might be unable to see because his eyes are severely watering or have swollen shut. The best thing to do in this case is to get the person out of the pool and flush out the chlorine with water.

Skin Symptoms

• Since chlorine is an irritant, some skin dryness is to be expected. A person with a chlorine allergy, though, will begin to burn and itch, with peeling occurring in extreme cases. And if an allergic person is exposed to chlorine for a long period of time, they may begin to develop an eczema-like rash. He should shower as soon as possible, and apply moisturizer regularly to combat the drying effect.

Respiratory Symptoms

• Perhaps the most serious symptom of a chlorine allergy is a respiratory reaction to chlorine in the air. A person with a chlorine allergy will feel as if they're having an asthma attack, and it is vitally important that he gets out of the area as soon as possible. If the reaction is severe enough, he might need immediate medical attention.