It is strongly recommended to avoid swimming while wearing contact lenses, as this practice introduces a high risk of severe eye infection. The combination of water, a soft lens, and the eye surface creates an environment where harmful microorganisms can thrive. The guidance is to remove contact lenses before engaging in any water activity.
Why Water and Contact Lenses Pose a Serious Risk
Soft contact lenses are made from porous, water-loving materials like hydrogel, which function like a sponge. These lenses absorb water from the surrounding environment, carrying contaminants directly against the surface of the eye. Water absorption can also cause the lens to swell and change shape, leading to discomfort and a tighter fit on the cornea. This can cause micro-abrasions on the eye’s surface, providing an entry point for pathogens.
The most significant danger comes from the microscopic parasite Acanthamoeba, commonly found in all types of water. When a contact lens absorbs water containing this parasite, it can become trapped between the lens and the cornea. This causes Acanthamoeba keratitis, a devastating eye infection that is difficult to treat and can lead to permanent vision loss. Chemical residues, such as chlorine from pool cleaners, also bind to the lens material, causing irritation and dryness.
Recognizing Signs of Eye Contamination and Infection
If you have accidentally exposed your contact lenses to water, monitor your eyes for signs of infection, as symptoms may not appear immediately. A primary symptom is severe eye pain that seems disproportionate to the visible irritation. This level of pain is a red flag that necessitates immediate medical attention.
Symptoms Requiring Medical Attention
Other serious indicators include:
- Unusual, persistent redness of the eye.
- Excessive tearing or the presence of a yellow or mucus-like discharge.
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
- Any sudden blurring or reduction in vision.
These symptoms can manifest hours or days after water exposure, requiring vigilance following any incident.
Safe Alternatives for Swimming and Water Activities
The safest and most recommended alternative for vision correction during water activities is wearing prescription swim goggles. These goggles are custom-made to match your vision prescription, allowing clear vision without contact lenses. They provide a secure, watertight seal that protects the eye from waterborne contaminants.
If prescription goggles are not an option, wear a fresh pair of daily disposable contact lenses paired with tight-fitting, waterproof swim goggles. Daily disposables are preferred because you can immediately discard them after swimming, minimizing the risk of reusing a contaminated lens. While this combination reduces the risk, it does not eliminate it entirely, as water can still seep under the goggles.
Immediate Steps After Accidental Water Exposure
If water accidentally contacts your eye while wearing lenses, remove them immediately upon exiting the water. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or lenses. If you were wearing daily disposable lenses, discard them immediately and replace them with a fresh pair or switch to glasses.
Monthly or reusable lenses must also be discarded, as the porous material absorbs contaminants that cleaning solutions cannot reliably remove. After removal, gently rinse your eyes using a sterile saline solution to flush out any trapped debris or irritants. Never attempt to clean or reuse any contact lens exposed to water, and do not rinse your eyes with tap water.