Scientific studies on the effects of chlorine on nasal mucosa
Scientific review on nasal problems related to swimming: rhinitis, sinusitis and irritations caused by chlorinated water and chloramines.
What studies say
Rhinitis very common among swimmers
- Swimmers (especially elite athletes) often report nasal symptoms and reduced nasal inspiratory flow after training; in a comparative study with runners, swimmers showed worsening of nasal function post-exercise and symptoms consistent with “swimming-induced rhinitis.” AJRA 2010
- Reviews indicate a high prevalence of upper airway dysfunctions among swimmers training in chlorinated pools. BJSM (review) OAJSM (review)
Role of chlorinated water and byproducts (chloramines)
- Trichloramine (NCl3) in pool air is associated with ocular, nasal, and respiratory symptoms among workers and may show vertical gradients above the water surface, increasing exposure for swimmers. Ann Work Exposures Health 2024 OEM 1998 Indoor Air 2021
- Cross-sectional studies on pool staff show concentration-response relationships between NCl3 and nasal irritation symptoms; biomarkers in nasal lavage and FeNO have also been assessed. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2012 J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol 2012 J Occup Environ Hyg 2019
- Updated public health guidelines summarize the mechanism: chloramines irritate skin, eyes, and airways (including the nose) when they pass into the gas phase, especially indoors. CDC 2025
Specific data on swimmers’ noses
- Prospective study with cytology: irritation from chlorinated water induces nasal dysfunction; swimmers show cytological alterations compared to athletes in other sports. Rhinology
- Pre/post swimming assessments show disturbances and irritation with nasal resistance/patency measurements. Acta Otorhinolaryngol Italica
- Prevalence and profile of non-allergic rhinitis in competitive swimmers have been described in allergology. JACI (abstract)
Swimmer’s sinusitis
- Historical reports and clinical investigations show higher presence of chronic sinusitis/rhinitis symptoms among swimmers compared to controls. Laryngo-Rhino-Otologie (1988)
- Recent pediatric case reports highlight possible occurrence of c