Chloramines, Asthma and Eczema Flare-Ups
Chloramines, a group of compounds formed from chlorine and nitrogen, are widely used in water treatment for their stability and disinfection. While effective in preventing bacterial growth in drinking water, exposure to chloramines, particularly in aerosolized form, has been shown to cause significant health issues, including asthma and eczema flare-ups.
Chloramines come in three forms: monochloramine (NH2Cl), dichloramine (NHCl2), and trichloramine (NCl3). These compounds are yellow to colorless liquids with a strong ammonia odor and can easily convert from one form to another. Chloramines are the most commonly used form in water treatment due to its stability and prolonged disinfectant properties.
Disinfection and Health Effects of Chloramines
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that all drinking water suppliers using surface water disinfect their supplies to eliminate disease-causing organisms. This practice has significantly reduced the incidence of infectious diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, and cholera. Maintaining a residual disinfectant level throughout the water distribution system ensures that water remains safe from bacterial contamination after leaving treatment plants.
While chloramine water meet EPA standards is generally safe for drinking and household use, inhaling aerosolized chloramine, such a steam in your shower, can lead to negative health issues. Exposure to high levels of chloramines, particularly in confined spaces like showers, can cause respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and asthma according to the Virginia Department of Health. Additionally, chloramines can trigger and exacerbate skin conditions like eczema.
1970 Brewery Workers and Chloramine
A study at a brewery in the 1970s highlighted the health risks associated with chloramine-T exposure, a powdered form of chloramine. Seven workers developed severe asthmatic symptoms after handling chloramine, a chlorine-liberating sterilizing agent. These workers experienced symptoms such as nasal and chest congestion, severe dyspnea, and wheezing. Skin-prick tests confirmed allergic reactions to chloramine, indicating sensitization. Notably, these symptoms ceased when the workers were no longer exposed to chloramine.
Chloramines in Shower Aerosols
When chloramine disinfected water is heated and sprayed in showers, chloramine compounds can become airborne, leading to inhalation and subsequent health problems. This is particularly concerning for individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly. Inhaling chloramine aerosols can cause asthma attacks and exacerbate eczema, highlighting the need for effective measures to reduce exposure.
Special Considerations
Certain populations require special precautions when exposed to chloramine disinfected water:
- Kidney Dialysis Patients: Chemicals in water can move into the blood during dialysis, necessitating pretreatment to remove chlorine and ammonia.
- Aquatic Life: Fresh and saltwater fish are sensitive to chloramines, requiring additives to neutralize these compounds in aquarium water.
- Rubber Components: Chloraminated water can damage rubber components in household appliances and plumbing systems.
Reducing Exposure
To mitigate the health risks associated with chloramines, consider the following measures:
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms to reduce airborne chloramine concentrations.
- Water Filtration: Install whole-home water filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis filters, to remove chloramines from water before it reaches the shower.
- Water Treatment Alternatives: Explore alternative disinfection methods, such as ultraviolet (UV) disinfection or ozonation, that do not produce chloramines.
Chloramines, while effective in disinfecting water and preventing bacterial growth, pose significant health risks when aerosolized, particularly causing asthma and eczema flare-ups. Increased awareness and the implementation of safety measures can help mitigate these risks, ensuring safer environments for all.
Go Further With Filtration
For households concerned about chloramines in water, reverse osmosis filtration systems and whole-home water conditioners offer effective solutions. These systems remove chemical contaminants, including chloramines, providing safer water for drinking, showering and bathing. Many of East Coast Water’s customers have reported in reviews and testimonials that their water filtration systems have eased their eczema symptoms over time. Breathe easier and keep your family safe.
Sources:
National Library of Medicine / PubMed PMC1595816
Virginia Department of Health – Chloramines