For the millions of people who wear contact lenses, the question of whether it's safe to swim while wearing them is a crucial consideration. While contacts provide convenient vision correction, combining them with swimming activities can pose significant health risks to your eyes.
Understanding these risks and knowing the proper precautions can help protect your eye health while enjoying water activities. Let's explore the dangers associated with swimming with contacts and learn about safer alternatives.
The Risks of Swimming with Contact Lenses
Swimming with contact lenses exposes your eyes to several potential hazards, varying by the type of water environment:
Pool Water Risks
Chlorinated pool water can cause contacts to tighten on your eyes, potentially leading to irritation and corneal damage. Additionally, despite chlorine treatment, pools can harbor harmful microorganisms that may become trapped between your contact lens and eye.
Ocean and Lake Water Dangers
Natural bodies of water contain numerous microorganisms and bacteria that can cause serious eye infections. The risk is particularly high because contact lenses can trap these organisms against your eye surface for extended periods.
Hot Tub Concerns
Hot tubs present a unique risk due to their warm temperature, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria growth. The combination of heat and chemicals can also affect the shape and fit of contact lenses.
Prevention Strategies for Contact Lens Wearers
If you must swim while wearing contact lenses, consider these essential precautions:
- Wear waterproof swimming goggles
- Use daily disposable contacts and discard them immediately after swimming
- Never reuse contacts that have been exposed to water
- Consider prescription swimming goggles as a safer alternative
Best Alternatives for Swimming
Several viable options exist for clear vision while swimming:
Prescription Swimming Goggles
These provide excellent vision correction and protection, making them ideal for regular swimmers. They're custom-made to your prescription and offer a secure fit.
Prescription Swim Masks
Perfect for activities like snorkeling or casual swimming, prescription masks offer a wider field of vision and can be more comfortable than goggles for some users.
Temporary Solutions
For occasional swimmers, wearing daily disposable contacts under high-quality waterproof goggles can be an acceptable short-term solution, though it's not recommended as a regular practice.
Eye Care After Water Exposure
If your contacts have been exposed to water, take these immediate steps:
- Remove contacts as soon as possible
- Clean and disinfect reusable lenses thoroughly (if applicable)
- Monitor your eyes for signs of infection
- Contact an eye care professional if you notice any unusual symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks of swimming with contact lenses in different types of water?
Swimming with contacts in any type of water poses risks of eye infections, corneal damage, and exposure to harmful microorganisms. Chlorinated pools can cause lenses to tighten, while natural bodies of water contain various bacteria and parasites that can lead to serious infections.
How can I prevent eye infections when swimming if I wear contact lenses?
To prevent infections, wear waterproof goggles over your contacts, use daily disposable lenses, remove contacts immediately after swimming, and properly clean and disinfect your eyes and lenses. The safest option is to use prescription swimming goggles instead.
What are the symptoms of an eye infection caused by swimming with contact lenses?
Common symptoms include redness, pain, increased sensitivity to light, blurred vision, excessive tearing, and a feeling of something in your eye. If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your contacts immediately and seek medical attention.
Is it safe to wear contact lenses while showering or bathing in tap water?
No, it's not safe to expose contact lenses to any type of water, including tap water. Water can harbor microorganisms that may cause serious eye infections. Remove contacts before showering or bathing.
What are the best alternatives to wearing contact lenses while swimming?
The best alternatives include prescription swimming goggles, prescription swim masks, or wearing daily disposable contacts with waterproof goggles for occasional use. Prescription goggles offer the safest and most practical solution for regular swimmers.
