Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, can be contracted from pool water through two primary mechanisms: chemical irritation and exposure to microbes. Even properly maintained pools can cause irritation due to chemicals, while poorly maintained pools may harbor infectious agents.
Pink Eye and Its Connection to Pool Water
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. This inflammation makes the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva more visible, causing the eye to appear reddish. Common symptoms include itching, a gritty sensation, and discharge, which can be watery, thick, yellow, or greenish.
There are three main types of conjunctivitis: viral, bacterial, and allergic. Viral conjunctivitis, often associated with cold or flu-like symptoms, causes watery discharge and clears up in 1 to 2 weeks without specific treatment. Bacterial conjunctivitis, which causes thick, yellow or greenish discharge and sticky eyelids, may require antibiotic eye drops or ointments to speed recovery. Allergic conjunctivitis, triggered by allergens, results in intense itching, redness, and tearing, and is not contagious.
Pool water can directly cause chemical conjunctivitis due to irritants like chlorine. Chlorine, even at appropriate levels, can wash away the eye’s protective tear film, leading to dryness, redness, and irritation. This chemical irritation, sometimes called “swimmer’s eye,” is a non-contagious form of pink eye.
Beyond chemical irritation, pool water can also harbor infectious agents. Poorly maintained pools may contain bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause eye infections, including conjunctivitis. This bacterium can survive in treated water. Viruses, particularly adenoviruses, are another common cause of pool-associated conjunctivitis, often leading to pharyngoconjunctival fever (PCF) characterized by fever, sore throat, and eye inflammation. Chemical irritation from chlorine can also make the eyes more susceptible to these bacterial and viral infections by compromising the eye’s natural defenses.
Preventing and Managing Pink Eye
Preventing pink eye when swimming involves several steps. Wearing snugly fitted goggles is recommended, as they protect eyes from chlorinated water and contaminants. Showering before and after swimming helps remove substances that can react with chlorine or introduce microbes. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes while in and around the pool area, and maintain good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water.
If you suspect you have pink eye, there are general steps for managing symptoms at home. Applying warm or cool compresses to the affected eye can help alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can help soothe irritation and dryness. Stop wearing contact lenses until symptoms resolve and a healthcare provider confirms it is safe to resume use.
While many cases of pink eye resolve on their own, it is important to know when to seek medical attention. You should see a healthcare professional if you experience severe eye pain, blurred vision that does not improve after wiping away discharge, increased sensitivity to light, or intense eye redness. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of home management, or if you have a weakened immune system. Newborns with any pink eye symptoms should be seen by a doctor immediately.