The presence of these bacteria in drinking water indicate that other, disease-causing organisms may also be present in the drinking water. Symtoms from these disease causing organisms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea and possibly jaundice as well as headaches and fatigue. It should be noted that these symptoms are common to a variety of diseases and may be caused by sources other than contaminated drinking water Fecal coliforms are bacteria that are associated with human or animal wastes. They usually live in human or animal intestines and their presence in drinking water is a strong indication of recent sewage contamination. Many types of bacteria that cause disease may be found in sewage.
Most water has some nitrates in it.
It is only when the nitrate concentration is unduly high that there is a possibility of harm, and even then the nitrates effect only unborn infants through ingestion by the mother and infants up to six months old. In the aquafier, iron is usually dissolved in water and is not visible. When the iron comes in contact with oxygen, it changes to a reddish compound that can discolor fixtures and laundry. At this time, there is no known health effect from elevated iron in drinking water. Well drillers place a well screen at the bottom of the well to allow water to pass through, but not sand.