While it is always a sense of enjoyment in enjoying a hot tub bath, there is an inherent possible risk of developing rash on skin. Commonly known as ‘hot tub rash’, it has a medical term, hot tub folliculitis. It develops as a result of the growth of the bacteria that damages the hair follicles causing red bumps in the skin, lead to pus-filled formations. The rash mostly develops after having a good time in the contaminated water which may be the hot tubs or spurs.
Symptoms
The symptoms for the hot tub rash are the appearance of the rash itself. The rash develops within two days or within few hours after spending time in a contaminated tub. They always begin with an itchy skin. Then the scratched part develops bumps that appear reddish. The bump then may be filled with pus. The sores that are filled with pus are mostly found around the places with hair follicles and the rash may be much severe beneath the areas covered with the swimsuit. This is mainly because the swim suit keeps the bacteria in for longer periods. Children are more at risk in developing the rash since they spend much time in the water.
The above is the main symptom however some people may develop mild fever, sore throat, vomiting and in some instances ear ache. It is so rare for the rash to progress and develop complications however people with weak immune system should seek medical attention.
Causes of hot tub rash
Infected water
Water that is not frequently changed provides a breeding ground for the germ. The water is full of dead human skin therefore allowing the bacteria to thrive. The bacteria are known as the pseudomonas aeruginosa, which may be found in water soil and plants. Poor maintenance of the tub is the major cause for the hot tube rash. The high temperature of the water breaks down the chlorine that is supposed to take care of the germs hence the bacteria may also thrive. Keeping optimum levels of the chlorine and close monitoring should be considered.
Prevention
The hot tub rash can be greatly reduced by preventive measures. Close monitoring to ensure that the pH levels are maintained and checking sanitizers goes long away in ensuring that the hot tub rash is kept in check. Paying close attention to hot tub rash which is frequently used helps to reduce the outbreak.
Frequent drainage of the hot water should be maintained even if the chemical composition is at its optimum level. This should be done once in every three months. Thorough scrubbing of the surface of the tub should be observed. This helps in removing any remaining particle of the dead skins. Also regular inspection of the filtration system should be observed and the faulty ones replaced immediately.
After having a refreshing time in the hot tub, the swimsuit should be immediately changed, and the person should take a shower with soapy water. The swimming costume should be clean and the clothes used in the oceans and lakes should not be used in the hot tub unless they are disinfected. This is a preventive mechanism as the bacteria will not find a perfect breeding ground. Rinsing oneself before jumping into the hot tub also plays a great part to keep the rash in check.
Treatment
The hot tub rash can appear on the chest, stomach and at the back. Fortunately, the rash always disappears on their own after some days. If they persist for more than a week some remedies maybe applied such as compressing the white vinegar. Benzoyl peroxide used for cure of acne and iodine rinse may be applied. Creams such as thermazene and silverex that contains Silver sulfadiazine may be applied. For the itchy rash, applying menthol lotion may help as a relief measure.
The hot tub rash may heal quickly when the affected and itchy part is not scratched. Scratching the itchy skin irritates the skin and the rash may last longer leaving some lesion on the affected part. The lesions also disappear after some few months.
Some people do not develop the rash even after spending time in the infected hot water tub. It is also worth noting that the rash may spread from swimming in the pool, lake or oceans. If the hot tub rash persists even after applying the above treatment, seeking medical advice is recommended.
Severe hot tub rash may cause skin condition known as abscess but it is treatable by antibiotics. Prevention however, goes a long in way in ensuring that you do not get the rash in the first place.
