Hot tub lung, or hypersensitivity pneumonitis, is a rare disease caused by inhaling endotoxins from bacteria in indoor hot tubs and pools. Symptoms include cough, fever, and trouble breathing. Regular disinfection and ventilation can prevent the disease.
Hot tub lung, or hypersensitivity pneumonitis, is a disease that has been associated with indoor hot tub use. This disease is quite rare and is also known as “lifeguard lung”, as it can also be linked to indoor swimming pools. It is often misdiagnosed as other lung diseases, such as tuberculosis.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is caused by inhaling endotoxins, which are bits of a bacterium (Mycobacterium avium) that have been aerosolized by steaming, bubbling water. Outdoor spas are much less likely to cause hot tub lung, since there are no issues with ventilation. Even with hot tubs and indoor pools, this condition is rare and usually occurs in people who frequently use the hot tub or pool over a long period of time.
The endotoxins that cause this condition are contained in a certain type of bacteria that can sometimes be harbored in circulating water systems. These systems can grow biofilms inside them if they are not disinfected regularly. If the slimy biofilm is disrupted in any way, such as squeezing the jets in a hot tub, the bacteria are released into the water and decompose, releasing the endotoxins into the water.
Symptoms of hot tub lung include fever, fatigue, cough, lack of appetite, night sweats, trouble breathing, and weight loss. People experiencing these symptoms should stop using the hot tub or indoor pool immediately. Corticosteroids and supplemental oxygen may be prescribed for extreme cases. Medical professionals disagree on whether antibiotics cure hypersensitivity pneumonitis or whether it is best to let it get better without any antibiotic treatment.
In order to prevent hot tub lung, hot tubs and indoor pools should always have a sufficient level of sanitizer in the water. Ventilation in the area is also important, to make sure fresh air is circulating and dilutes any endotoxins in the air. The water in spas or swimming pools also needs to be changed regularly and have the proper balance and filtration needed. If a spa hasn’t been used for a while, it should be sanitized before being used again. During sanitization, all jets must be turned on so that the entire water system comes into contact with the disinfectant.
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