5 minor pool injuries and how to treat them

Pool injuries are different than other types, and they should be treated as such. For starters, getting hurt near water beckons extra attention. Additionally, the accidents happen right in your own backyard. There's nothing to fear, however, a little knowledge can keep your loved ones safe and pool clean. Lastly, you'll need to know what to do to sanitize the pool. Here are five common injuries and how to treat them.

1. Skinned knees
Anyone who's tripped and smacked the hard concrete next to the pool understands the awful stinging that typically accompanies this injury. If this happens, don't immediately bandage the wound. You should wash your hands first to avoid infection, suggested the Mayo Clinic. Then, stop the bleeding and cover the injury. Don't forget to frequently change the bandage and clean the wound as infection may occur long after the bleeding stops. If you notice that your wound is discolored, it could be a sign that it's infected. 

2. Muscle cramps
You're bound to get a charley horse or other muscle cramp from time to time if you're a swimmer. It's vital to recognize it and take a break from pool time. As Medicine Net explained, you can also reduce your odds of cramping up by staying hydrated, exercising regularly and eating well. 

3. Swallow too much water
It's widely known that pool water isn't meant for consumption as it's full of chemicals, like chlorine. However, accidental ingestion happens, which means you need to know what to do. Vigilance is a great way to prevent your children from getting ill if they swallow some pool water, according to Health Day.

Keep an eye out for vomiting, coughing and breathing problems. If you notice any of these, it could mean that the person may have a recreational water illness, in which case medical attention is recommended. 

4. Sprained ankle
One misstep off the diving board and you could end up with a sprained ankle. While this injury doesn't often require a trip to the emergency room, it does need attention. According to the American Ortopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, over 25,000 people sprain their ankles every day.

It's best to stay off of the foot as much as you can until it heals properly. Immediately after the accident, be sure to ice it to prevent swelling and consider getting crutches if you're having difficulty walking. Prop the injured leg up on a chair or ottoman when you can. This helps reduce blood flow to the injured area. If the sprained ankle isn't better after a day or two, consider seeing a doctor because it may mean that you tore a ligament or broke a bone. 

5. Irritated skin
It's not uncommon to develop itchy skin following a swim, but it can certainly be uncomfortable. If you swim on a daily basis, you can ease your symptoms by applying a cream or ointment to the irritated area. If you don't regularly take dips in the pool, it can be a sign of a larger problem. Perhaps you're allergic to chlorine, in which case you should refrain from using the pool until consulting your doctor first.

It could also indicate that you need to have your pool balanced. Red skin is a common sign that there's too much chlorine in the water. Call Fort Worth, San Diego or Phoenix pool service professionals to have your pool balanced. You can have it taken care of on a per diem basis or set up a schedule.