What to Know Before Swimming in a Lake This Summer season: Security, Benefits, and Risks

Everyone appears to be like ahead to lake time with household and pals. Being on the boat, fishing on the dock, and swimming within the water are nice methods to spend your weekend.  Before you bounce on this summer season let’s discuss some well being advantages and dangers that lake water can current. 

Health Benefits of Swimming in Lake Water

Did you already know swimming in lakes and freshwater sources is without doubt one of the greatest methods to train?

• Over 85% of your muscle tissue are used whereas swimming to pure resistance from the water, making it an efficient full-body exercise.
• Cold freshwater forces the physique to work more durable to keep up physique temperature, boosting your metabolism and burning extra energy.
• Sudden chilly water triggers vasoconstriction after which dilation, which flushes out toxins, helps cardiovascular well being, and stimulates white blood cell manufacturing.
• Nature and train improve endorphins and cut back stress, anxiousness and melancholy.
• Daylight publicity mixed with the cold-water circulation helps regulate circadian rhythms for higher sleep. 

Common Risks of Swimming in Lake Water

Swimming in lakes could be refreshing and enjoyable, nevertheless it’s vital to pay attention to potential well being dangers. Natural our bodies of water can harbor dangerous microorganisms like E. coli, giardia, cryptosporidium, norovirus, and legionella, which can trigger gastrointestinal misery, pores and skin rashes, ear infections, and even respiratory points. Swimmer’s itch, attributable to parasites present in shallow water, can even result in itchy pores and skin eruptions after wading or swimming. Understanding these dangers helps you make safer decisions earlier than diving in.

Germ ranges in lake water usually rise after heavy rainfall or in cloudy situations, growing the danger of publicity. Drinking untreated lake water can even result in sickness, so it’s greatest to keep away from swallowing it altogether.

How to Prevent and Treat Lake-Related Illnesses

Staying knowledgeable and taking just a few easy precautions may help you take pleasure in lake days safely and comfortably. To cut back your threat, keep away from swimming in marshy areas the place snails, widespread hosts for swimmer’s itch parasites, are prone to be discovered. Keep birds away from swimming and lounging areas, as their droppings can contribute to water contamination.

“After swimming, towel off or shower as soon as possible to help prevent skin irritation and infections,” says Dr. Eric Johnson, assistant medical director at Altru’s Diabetes Center. “If a rash does occur, treatment options include applying corticosteroid cream, using cool compresses, soaking in Epsom salt or colloidal oatmeal baths, applying a baking soda paste, and using anti-itch lotion. Avoid scratching the affected area to prevent further irritation.”

Dive In, Safely

While it’s vital to take precautions and be careful for signs, don’t let fear destroy your time outdoor. 

If you or your little one develops a lake-related sickness, Altru is right here to assist. Visit one in every of our Express Care places or schedule an appointment by calling 701.780.5000 for skilled care near residence.