Ask a doctor on the topic of General medicine

Drinking Water Problem - Home Water Filter

January 27, 2014 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Christian Welsch

Hello,

Today we discovered that the house water filter (we live in a rented apartment in the house) has not been changed for years. We have been consuming the water for over a year but have not gotten sick and have not noticed any changes in our health. Now that we have a 4-month-old son and my wife is breastfeeding, we are wondering if there could be long-term effects and if we should get ourselves checked. The filter will be replaced today. Should we have the water tested microbiologically afterwards?

We are currently very concerned, so any tips and specific suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you
JM

Christian Welsch

Dear questioner, I would not assume there is a risk. Please clarify what type of filter your water system had. Many are used for softening or removing small rust particles that come from the pipes. I believe colonization by bacteria is unlikely in a closed system, as there is no evidence to suggest otherwise.
Water for young children (for formula) should always be boiled if possible, as this is the only way to prevent colonization by bacteria.
Best regards, C. Welsch