The Effects of Drinking Contaminated Water
We've all been told to avoid drinking dirty
and/or contaminated water. But how well informed are we about the
consequences of doing so? Water contamination can occur in city water
supplies, well water supplies and fresh water sources, such as lakes,
streams, and rivers. Read through this guide to discover more.
1. What could the water be contaminated
with?
Bacteria or chemicals, such as nitrates can contaminate the water. When a
water test shows the presence of bacteria, it is considered to be
unsafe to drink. Total coliform organisms, a group of bacteria found in
the environment, are an indicator of the safety of your water. If
present, it indicates that disease-causing organisms, including
bacteria, viruses, and parasites, could potentially be present in your
water supply.
In addition, if any amount of E.coli bacteria is found in a water sample
(E. coli generally lives in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and
humans) it is known that human sewage or animal feces have contaminated
the water supply. The presence of nitrates in well water is usually the
result of farming activities like fertilizing. Consequently, if nitrates
are at levels above 10 milligrams per liter of water, an infant may
suffer from a condition known as 'blue baby syndrome' - caused by
nitrates interfering with the blood's ability to carry oxygen throughout
the body.
2. What are the signs of drinking
contaminated water?
When drinking contaminated water, the health effects people experience
may or may not present themselves immediately. In addition, the overall
health, age and physical condition of the persona are other factors
which determine the extent of what is experienced. Some of the more
common problems experienced from drinking impure water include, but are
not limited to:
• Gastrointestinal Problems
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Intestinal or Stomach Cramping
• Intestinal or Stomach Aches and Pains
• Dehydration
• Death
However, if no signs or symptoms are experienced, it does not mean that
there are no potential long-term effects. In fact, if water sources have
been contaminated with radium or radon gas, it is likely that you will
not notice immediate health effects. However, long-term exposure has
been linked to others. In addition to this, other possible contaminants
found in tainted water sources include:
• E. coli Bacteria
• Coliform Bacteria
• Nitrates
• Lead
• Fluoride
• Arsenic
• Radium
• Radon
• Pharmaceuticals
• Herbicides
• Pesticides
• Chemicals
• Fecal Matter
• Microbial Pathogens
• Parasites
• Viruses
• Petrochemicals
What causes water to become contaminated?
Contaminants can enter water supplies through various means, including
being absorbed into the ground and contaminated ground water sources,
broken pipes, and excess water run-off during heavy rain periods.
Does dirty/contaminated water smell?
There are instances where the water could smell or taste different. But
in most cases, contaminants have no taste or odor, leaving no indication
of contamination.
Will boiling the water help make it safe?
When boiling the water, it does kill most types of parasites, bacteria,
and viruses. However, it can cause increased concentrations of other
contaminants due to evaporation of water.
How can I tell if my water is safe to drink?
The best way to test if your water is safe and free from bacteria is to
get it tested by an experienced water purification company in your area.
The results will let you know exactly what is in your water and what
steps you can take to improve it - such as getting quality water
softeners and filters installed in your home or business.