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The risk of eye irritation and eye infection increases significantly when you wear contacts while swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean. To ensure you can enjoy swimming while keeping your eyes healthy, let’s address the major risks associated with swimming in your contact lenses.
The risk of eye irritation and eye infection increases significantly when you wear contacts while swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean. To ensure you can enjoy swimming while keeping your eyes healthy, let’s address the major risks associated with swimming in your contact lenses.
Daily contacts, or any other soft contact lenses aren’t designed to be worn in water. Disposable contact lenses are designed for optimal comfort and airflow to your eyes, so when you swim with them, they tend to absorb water, like a sponge. Firstly, water absorption can alter the shape of the lens, which can cause blurred vision or discomfort. More importantly, your contact lenses absorbing water can trap bacteria and other microbes found in water between the lens and your eye, escalating the risk of infection.
Bacteria and microorganisms thrive in aquatic environments and can easily adhere to your contact lenses. Exposing your eyes and contact lenses to water increases the risk of contracting serious eye infections. Some eye infections can even cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. The most common issues from wearing contact lenses are different types of corneal infections called keratitis, also commonly known as corneal ulcers.
More specifically, Acanthamoeba Keratitis is a rare but serious eye infection caused by a tiny microorganism. Acanthamoeba parasites are commonly found in bodies of water, such as oceans or lakes, but can also be found in swimming pools, hot tubs, and tap water. According to the CDC, 85% of those infected by the parasites in the U.S. are contact lens wearers. It can lead to vision loss or total blindness without prompt treatment.
As mentioned before, along with trapping water between your eye and contact lens, you risk trapping tiny particles or debris in the water, which can rub against the surface of your eye, and scratch the cornea.
Swimming pools and hot tubs are typically maintained with chlorine or other similar chemicals to keep them clean and safe to swim in. Unfortunately, chlorine does not react well to contact lenses or your eyes and doesn’t eliminate the risk of an eye infection. Chlorine naturally irritates your eyes without contact lenses by disrupting the tear film (a thin layer that protects the surface of your eyes), making it easier for bacteria to infect your eyes.
Your best bet is to not wear your contact lenses when swimming but if you don’t want to go without crystal-clear vision, consider goggles as an alternative. Wearing contact lenses under water-proof goggles will keep water away from your eyes.
If you forget to take your contacts out before swimming, discard them if they are daily contact lenses. If you wear reusable contact lenses, remember to thoroughly clean and store them in a clean contact lens case with fresh contact lens solution immediately.
If the water is calling your name, we want you to dive in! But remember, it’s the safest practice to take your contacts out before you get in the water. You might not see as clearly, but your eyes will be protected. Summer swimming tip: Consider grabbing a pair of prescription sunglasses if you’re swimming outside to protect your eyes from the sun and keep your vision intact.
If you’re experiencing any contact lens discomfort, talk to your eye doctor as soon as possible. Your optometrists can quickly diagnose and treat an infection or eye condition before it gets worse. All Dr. Tavel locations accept walk-ins.
Prioritizing your eye health starts with scheduling an eye exam. Schedule your next visit online or by calling 844-GO-TAVEL.
