Swimming is a favorite pastime and an excellent form of exercise, but for those who wear contact lenses, it brings a common question: “Can you swim with contacts?” While contact lenses offer convenience and clear vision, wearing them while swimming can expose your eyes to potential risks. This blog explores whether it’s safe to swim with contacts, the risks involved, and how to protect your eyes if you decide to take a dip.
Is It Safe to Swim With Contacts?
In short, it’s not recommended to swim with contact lenses. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), contact lenses should not be exposed to water, whether it’s in swimming pools, oceans, lakes, or even hot tubs. Water contains various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which can adhere to contact lenses and cause serious eye infections.
A notable risk is Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but severe infection caused by a microscopic organism found in water. This condition can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Studies suggest that approximately 85% of Acanthamoeba keratitis cases are associated with contact lens use.
Can You Wear Contacts in the Pool?
Swimming pools may seem safer due to chlorine treatment, but the reality is that chlorine cannot eliminate all harmful microorganisms. Additionally, chlorine itself can irritate the eyes and degrade contact lenses.
- A study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology found that individuals who swam with contact lenses had a 10 times higher risk of eye infections than those who didn’t.
- Furthermore, pool water can dislodge lenses, making it challenging to retrieve them and potentially damaging the lens or eye.
Can You Wear Contacts in the Ocean or Fresh Water?
Natural bodies of water, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers, pose even greater risks than pools. Saltwater and freshwater harbor a wide variety of microorganisms, including harmful bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a leading cause of bacterial keratitis.
- Studies indicate that Pseudomonas aeruginosa can adhere to soft contact lenses within just 10 minutes of exposure to water.
- Freshwater is particularly risky due to the higher likelihood of harboring Acanthamoeba.
- Saltwater, while less likely to cause infections, can still dry out lenses, leading to discomfort and potential irritation.
Risks of Swimming With Contacts
Swimming with contact lenses exposes you to a range of issues:
a) Eye Infections
Water, whether chlorinated or not, contains harmful microorganisms that can stick to your lenses and increase the risk of infections. Acanthamoeba keratitis, bacterial keratitis, and fungal infections are the most common and can be sight-threatening if left untreated.
b) Dryness and Irritation
Contact lenses are designed to retain moisture, but exposure to water can disrupt their balance. Chlorine and saltwater can dry out the lenses, causing discomfort and irritation.
c) Cloudy Vision
When contact lenses absorb water, they can swell or warp, leading to blurry or cloudy vision. This not only impacts your swimming experience but also increases the chances of losing a lens.
d) Chemical Exposure
Swimming pools often contain chemicals like chlorine and bromine to sanitize the water. These chemicals can adhere to your lenses, causing redness, irritation, and even chemical burns in severe cases.
e) Light Sensitivity
Irritation from water and chemicals can make your eyes more sensitive to light, a condition known as photophobia. This can be particularly uncomfortable in outdoor swimming areas.
How to Reduce the Risk of Contact Lens-Related Issues?
If you must wear contacts while swimming, here are some tips to minimize risks:
1. Use Daily Disposable Lenses
Disposable lenses reduce the risk of infection since you can discard them immediately after swimming.
2. Wear Waterproof Swim Goggles
Goggles create a protective barrier, preventing water from coming into contact with your lenses and eyes.
3. Rinse and Replace Lenses
After swimming, remove your lenses immediately and rinse your eyes with sterile saline solution. Replace the lenses with a new pair.
4. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
Rubbing can spread bacteria and cause further irritation.
5. Consult an Eye Care Professional
Regular eye check-ups can help ensure your eyes remain healthy, especially if you’re frequently exposed to water while wearing contacts.
Can You Swim With Contact Lenses While Wearing Goggles?
Yes, you can swim with contact lenses if you wear well-fitted, waterproof swim goggles. Goggles not only protect your eyes from water exposure but also improve underwater visibility.
- A survey of competitive swimmers found that 92% of those who wore goggles while using contact lenses reported fewer eye problems compared to those who swam without goggles.
When choosing goggles:
- Ensure they fit snugly and create a watertight seal.
- Opt for anti-fog or UV-protective goggles for added comfort and protection.
Conclusion
While it might be tempting to swim with contact lenses for convenience, the potential risks to your eye health outweigh the benefits. Swimming without lenses or using prescription swim goggles is the safest option. If you must wear contacts while swimming, take precautions like wearing waterproof goggles and using disposable lenses.
By following these tips and being aware of the risks, you can enjoy swimming without compromising your eye health. Always consult your eye care specialist for personalized advice and recommendations.
