Underwater Eye Safety Guidance
Water activities can be a major highlight of the summer months.
However, the water environment can present unique challenges to the health and safety of your eyes. Understanding these potential risks and taking simple precautions can help ensure your aquatic adventures don’t lead to eye irritation or infection.
Why Water Can Be Tough on Eyes
Water, whether chlorinated or natural, isn’t always eye-friendly. Pool water contains chemicals like chlorine, which can strip away the natural tear film protecting your eyes, leading to dryness, redness, and irritation. Natural bodies of water, like lakes or oceans, can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can cause serious eye infections.
Acanthamoeba keratitis, for example, is a rare but severe infection linked to freshwater and tap water exposure, particularly for contact lens wearers. Foreign objects or debris in the water can also scratch or irritate the eye’s delicate surface.
Your Best Defense: Protective Eyewear
The most effective way to protect your eyes in the water is by wearing properly fitting goggles or a swim mask. These create a barrier that shields your eyes from chemicals, salt, bacteria, and debris.
- For casual swimming: Standard swim goggles are usually sufficient. Ensure they form a watertight seal without being too tight.
- For underwater exploration: A swim mask (covering eyes and nose) provides a wider field of vision and is essential for diving or snorkeling.
- For prescription needs: Swim goggles and masks are available with corrective lenses, allowing you to see clearly underwater without risking contact lenses.
The Risks of Wearing Contact Lenses in Water
This is a critical point: you should generally avoid wearing contact lenses while swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. Water can get between the contact lens and the eye, trapping bacteria and increasing the risk of severe infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis. Contact lenses can also absorb chemicals from pool water, causing irritation and discomfort.
If you must wear contacts for vision correction while swimming, consider using daily disposable lenses and discarding them immediately after getting out of the water. Even then, using watertight goggles is highly recommended.
After Your Swim
Even with precautions, you might experience some eye irritation after swimming. Gently rinsing your eyes with clean, sterile saline solution can help wash away any lingering irritants. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation or introduce bacteria. If you experience prolonged redness, pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light after being in the water, seek professional eye care immediately.
Prioritizing Eye Safety
Whether you’re swimming laps, playing at the beach, or enjoying a water park, keeping your eyes protected should be a key part of your safety routine. Simple steps like wearing goggles, avoiding contacts in water, and rinsing after swimming can make a significant difference in preventing irritation and potential infections.