As we dive into the summer season, many look forward to refreshing swims and exciting water sports. However, it's crucial to discuss an often-overlooked aspect of eye health: the risks of swimming with contact lenses. May, Healthy Vision Month, offers the perfect opportunity to shed light on this important issue.
At Eye Doctors, we prioritize your eye safety and health, especially during activities that could pose risks. This blog aims to educate you on why avoiding wearing contact lenses while swimming is essential. It provides practical advice for safe eye care during the summer.
The Risks of Swimming with Contact Lenses
Increased Risk of Eye Infections
Water is a natural habitat for many microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and amoebae. When you swim with contact lenses, these microorganisms can adhere to the lenses and transfer to your eye. This significantly increases the risk of infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis.
This infection, although rare, is serious and potentially sight-threatening. It is most commonly associated with lens wearers who expose their lenses to water.
Contact Lens Contamination
Contact lenses are porous to maintain breathability for the cornea, but this also means they can absorb water. This absorption can lead to the lenses retaining water and any chemicals or impurities. This can cause discomfort, redness, and more severe reactions like corneal ulcers.
Altered Lens Fit
Exposure to water can cause soft contact lenses to tighten and shrink, which can uncomfortably alter their fit on your eye. This causes discomfort and can lead to microscopic abrasions on the cornea. These abrasions increase the risk of infection and long-term damage.
Safer Alternatives and Preventive Measures
- Switch to Daily Disposable Lenses: If you must wear contact lenses while swimming, daily disposable lenses are a safer choice. You can wear these lenses just before swimming and discard them afterward, reducing the risk of contamination.
- Wear Swim Goggles: Protect your eyes when swimming by wearing goggles. They help shield your eyes from harmful contaminants and reduce the risk of water-borne irritants affecting your eye health.
- Regular Eye Exams: Ensure you visit Eye Doctors for regular eye exams. These visits allow for early detection and treatment of eye conditions. It also allows personalized advice on eye care and contact lens use.
Engaging in Safe Practices
Apart from individual precautions, engaging in broader safe practices can further protect your eyes. Always rinse your eyes with fresh, clean water after swimming, and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes until you can properly wash your hands. This helps minimize the risk of transferring contaminants from your hands to your eyes.
Request Your Eye Exam Today
While it might seem convenient to swim with contact lenses, the associated risks can lead to serious eye health issues. You can enjoy your summer safely by following the recommended guidelines and opting for safer alternatives like daily disposables and swim goggles.
Remember, at , we are committed to helping you maintain the best possible vision and eye health through personalized, proactive care.