Can you die of drinking too much pool water?

Drinking large amounts of pool water can be harmful, but it is unlikely to cause death. The main risk associated with drinking pool water is the ingestion of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and parasites. These microorganisms can cause a variety of illnesses, including gastrointestinal problems, skin infections, and respiratory infections. In rare cases, these illnesses can be life-threatening, but this is not the norm.

The other main risk associated with drinking pool water is the ingestion of chemicals, such as chlorine and pH balancers. These chemicals are added to pool water to keep it clean and safe for swimming, but they can be harmful if ingested in large amounts. Chlorine, in particular, can cause irritation of the digestive tract and respiratory system. In rare cases, chlorine can also cause more serious health problems, such as kidney damage and liver damage.

Overall, drinking pool water is not recommended and can be harmful, but it is unlikely to cause death. If you do accidentally swallow some pool water, it is important to drink plenty of fresh water to help flush out any harmful microorganisms or chemicals. If you experience any symptoms of illness after drinking pool water, it is important to see a doctor.