As delightful as a refreshing swim can be on a hot day, it comes with unique challenges and risks for contact lens wearers. Clear vision is crucial for your safety and enjoyment during water activities, so you might consider wearing your contacts during a swim. However, experts warn against this practice as it can lead to eye infections. Continue reading to learn more.
The Unseen Dangers of Water on Your Contact Lenses
When submerged in water, contact lenses can behave like sponges, soaking up not only the water itself but also the various microorganisms and chemicals present within it. This includes pools which, despite being treated with chlorine, can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that the chemical cannot neutralize. Furthermore, natural bodies of water may contain microbes, such as the notorious Acanthamoeba, known to cause severe eye infections that may lead to vision loss.
The FDA’s Stance on Contacts and Water Exposure
The FDA explicitly recommends that contact lenses should not be exposed to any form of water. This includes tap water, as well as the waters of swimming pools, oceans, lakes, hot tubs, and showers. The reason is clear: Water carries pathogens and chemicals that can adhere to your contacts, causing irritation, infections, or ulcers on the cornea. Such complications can have long-term consequences on your eye health.
The Risk to Your Eye Health
Swimming with contacts not only increases your risk of eye infections. It can also lead to the lenses tightening against your eyes, causing significant discomfort and potentially scratching the cornea’s surface. Moreover, should you open your eyes underwater, your contacts can easily trap contaminants between the lens and your eye or even fall out, leading to further complications.
Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers
Goggles
If swimming is an unavoidable part of your lifestyle, wearing well-fitted goggles customized to your vision needs is the best option.
Post-Swim Care
If you forgot to remove your contacts before taking a dip, immediate and thorough cleansing of the lenses with a sterile solution is imperative. Alternatively, disposing of the used contacts and replacing them with a fresh pair can also minimize the risks of eye infections.
Regular Eye Check-Ups
Regular visits to your eye care provider are crucial, especially if you regularly engage in swimming or other activities that may expose your contacts to water.
Vienna Eyecare Center can offer personalized advice and solutions tailored to your lifestyle and vision needs, ensuring the health of your eyes remains a top priority. Give us a call at (703) 938-7633 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment.
