As we celebrate Healthy Vision Month, it's the perfect time to discuss an often-overlooked aspect of eye care—swimming with contact lenses. Summer draws many to the water to cool off and enjoy the season, but for those who wear contact lenses, there are crucial precautions to take.
Swimming with contact lenses can pose significant risks to eye health, including infections and other serious complications.
The Risks of Swimming with Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are a safe and convenient alternative to glasses, enhancing vision without obstructing physical activity. However, when exposed to water, contact lenses can become a hazard. Here’s why:
- Contamination and Infection
Water bodies, whether pools, oceans, lakes, or showers, harbor bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Acanthamoeba is a common dangerous contaminant found in many water sources, which can adhere to contact lenses and cause Acanthamoeba keratitis. This severe eye infection can lead to permanent vision impairment or blindness if not treated quickly and effectively.
Chlorinated water from pools might seem safer, but it poses its own risks. Pool water can wash away the tear film that protects your eyes, making them more vulnerable to pathogens. Moreover, chlorine and other chemicals can interact with the lens material, potentially leading to eye irritation and discomfort.
- Trapping Harmful Agents
Contact lenses can trap pathogens against your eye, effectively providing a breeding ground for bacteria. This can increase the risk of infections like bacterial conjunctivitis or other forms of keratitis. Since the lens covers the cornea, it can restrict oxygen flow to the eye, which is essential for corneal health and the ability to fight off infections.
- Physical Damage to the Eye
Swimming can cause soft contact lenses to tighten around your eyes, potentially leading to corneal abrasions. These small scratches on the eye's surface cause discomfort and make it easier for bacteria to take hold and cause an infection.
Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy This Summer
Here are some preventative measures you can take to protect your eyes if you are a contact lens wearer planning to swim:
- Wear Waterproof Swim Goggles
Wearing well-fitted swim goggles is the best protection for those who swim frequently. They help protect your eyes from waterborne irritants and also help keep your contacts dry if you choose to wear them, which is not recommended.
- Use Daily Disposable Lenses
If you must wear contacts while swimming, consider wearing daily disposables. You can discard them immediately after swimming, reducing the risk of contamination. However, you should still wear goggles over them to minimize water contact.
- Rinse Eyes After Swimming
Always rinse your eyes with fresh, clean water or a sterile saline solution immediately after swimming. This helps to remove any harmful substances that might have come into contact with your eyes.
- Follow Up with Your Eye Care Provider
If you experience any irritation, redness, blurred vision, or discomfort after swimming with contacts, visit your eye care provider promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing more serious complications.
As we observe Healthy Vision Month, let’s commit to safe practices that uphold our eye health. Swimming with contact lenses is risky and can lead to severe eye health issues.
Carmel Mountain Vision Care strongly advises against it to protect your vision. Always opt for protective swim goggles, or schedule your appointment with our team to explore contact lens alternatives like prescription swim goggles or daily disposables for your swimming needs.
Remember, the safety of your eyes should never be compromised, and maintaining good vision is a priority that deserves our utmost attention, especially during the playful summer months.