Dive into the truth: Can you safely swim with contact lenses?
Taking a nice swim on a hot summer day can be both refreshing and therapeutic for the mind and body. However, for those who wear contact lenses, the question still remains: is it safe to swim with them on? As we dive into the truth, we will examine the risks and the precautions associated with swimming with contact lenses.
What are the risks?
Swimming with contact lenses can be tempting for anyone wearing them. After all, they’re a convenient way of ensuring proper vision without having to wear glasses. However, there are certain risks with wearing them while swimming which can affect eye health.
Pathogens : Microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria are harbored in pools, lakes and oceans. When swimming with lenses on, there’s a risk that these pathogens will adhere to the them, which can cause eye infections or even more severe eye conditions.
Chemical substances : Pools are known to contain chemical substances such as chlorine to keep them sanitized. But these products can irritate the eyes and create discomfort when they come into contact with contact lenses. This can lead to corneal abrasions and other forms of eye irritation.
Dislodgement : When swimming in a pool, lake or the ocean, the force of the water can displace the contact lenses from their position on the cornea, which creates discomfort and even a risk of losing them completely in the water. This movement can cause of course a less clear vision, but also increases the likelihood of debris getting stuck between the lens and the eye.
How to minimize the risks ?
Yes, swimming with contact lenses does pose some risks. But luckily, there are certain precautions to be taken that can minimize those risks of any dangerous outcomes on the eyes.
Disposable lenses : Using lenses that can be disposed after a swim can reduce the risk of debris and pathogen build up in the eye. This of course reduces the risk of infections. Simply discard the disposable lenses after a swim to avoid any contamination.
Goggles : Waterproof goggles provide a barrier to protect the eyes when wearing contact lenses. They prevent any displacement of the contact lenses from the cornea, which in turn minimizes the risk of eye infections. It also acts as a barrier from those pathogens that may be present in water you’re swimming in.
Minimal water contact : When swimming with contact lenses, it’s better to avoid submerging your head underwater. Instead, either choose activities with minimal water contact or opt for protective aquatic lenses such as prescribed goggles.
It’s clear that when the opportunity to take a dip in the pool or the ocean presents itself, it can be tempting to dive in, contact lenses or not. However, there are several risks for the health of your eyes when doing so. To enjoy aquatic activities, it’s important to take precautions and safeguard your eyes. Therefore, before diving in, weight the risks and implement the appropriate precautions to safeguard the health of your eyes, for a crystal-clear vision.
