Our lakes are no longer as safe as they were some twenty years ago. Swimming, while still a pleasure, can have side effects that we don’t like.

Our lakes are unfortunately no longer clean. Too many types of waste are thrown into the water. People do not think about the danger to the population of the lake. The quality of the water is affected by this waste. When swimming, we can find various strains of schistosomes. There are eggs of this parasite that get into the skin of people who are swimming. These eggs are itchy within minutes to hours of exposure.

Fortunately, these parasites only cause skin rashes. And, of course, itching too. These can disappear in a maximum of a week.

In rare cases, the rashes are accompanied by chills and an upset stomach. Sometimes diarrhea can be observed. Most of these conditions clear up within a week. There are no other diseases to follow.

If the hives are very bad and itchy, you can treat it with antihistamines and cortisone in the form of creams to apply locally.

The best prevention is to bathe immediately after swimming.

In any case, avoid shallow water. In fact, near the shores of the lake, parasites are present in great numbers. These parasites can attack the skin and cause rashes. These rashes can be mild or, in some cases, quite severe. The more sensitive the skin, the more important prevention is.

Other allergens can be found in lake water. Some of them can be very dangerous. Such as the discharge of chemicals from factories or human waste. In any case, avoid bathing in areas where there is sewage brought into the lake. If you don’t realize this and go swimming, you can get sick. Your stomach can be seriously upset with diarrhea and vomiting. If this is the case, seek medical help immediately.

Another thing to avoid is the difference in water temperature. If you swim in cold water, you put yourself in more danger.

Let’s review what to do:

Go swimming in freshwater lakes and do it offshore. Never swim in dirty water. The water must be clear.

Never swim or stay near shore. The shallow waters of the banks are full of parasites.

After swimming, bathe with lukewarm water and then pat your skin dry.

If your skin has a rash, don’t scratch it. Even if it itches. The more you touch or scratch it, the worse it will get.

If the itching is severe, treat the affected spots with an antihistamine or cortisone cream. The rash should go away in a week at the latest. If there is a more serious illness after swimming in a freshwater lake, seek medical help.