Red, irritated eyes are common after swimming. While typically not serious, understanding their causes, effective remedies, and prevention can alleviate discomfort and enhance the swimming experience.
Understanding Why Eyes Turn Red After Swimming
The primary reason eyes turn red after swimming stems from chemical irritants present in the water. Chlorine, used to sanitize pools, can strip away the eye’s natural tear film, a protective layer. This disruption leaves the delicate eye surface vulnerable to irritation.
Chloramines are potent irritants; these compounds form when chlorine reacts with organic matter like sweat, urine, and cosmetics introduced by swimmers. They contribute to burning and redness often associated with pool water. Additionally, an imbalanced pH level in pool water can cause discomfort, as the human eye maintains a specific pH. If the pool water’s pH deviates significantly from this, it can further irritate the eyes.
Beyond chemical factors, pool water can harbor microbes such as bacteria and viruses. While chlorine aims to eliminate these, some can survive, especially in poorly maintained pools or if chlorine levels are inadequate. These microorganisms can cause infections like conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, contributing to redness. Natural water bodies like lakes and oceans also contain various irritants, including salt, sand, and different types of bacteria or algae, which can similarly affect the eyes.
Effective Home Remedies for Immediate Relief
When eyes become red and irritated after swimming, several home remedies can provide immediate relief. Rinsing the eyes with clean, cool water or a sterile saline solution is an effective first step to wash away residual chemicals and irritants. This dilutes chemicals and soothes burning.
Applying artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help restore the eye’s natural moisture barrier and alleviate dryness. They replenish the disrupted tear film, providing comfort and reducing redness. It is important to choose lubricating or artificial tear drops and avoid “get the red out” drops, as these can cause rebound redness and worsen dryness with prolonged use.
A cool compress placed over closed eyelids can also reduce swelling, itching, and irritation. The coolness helps to constrict blood vessels and calm inflamed tissues. Resting the eyes after applying these remedies allows them to recover and reduces further strain on the irritated surface.
Preventing Red Eyes Before You Swim
Proactive measures can reduce the likelihood of experiencing red eyes after swimming. Wearing well-fitting swim goggles creates a physical barrier, preventing direct contact between pool water and the eyes. Goggles protect the delicate tear film from chemical exposure and microbial contaminants, preserving comfort.
Showering before entering the pool helps to rinse off sweat, dirt, and personal care products from the skin. This action reduces the amount of organic matter that can react with chlorine to form irritating chloramines in the water. Regular and proper maintenance of pool chemistry, particularly pH and chlorine levels, also minimizes eye irritation.
For individuals who wear contact lenses, it is advisable to remove them before swimming. Contact lenses can trap irritants and microorganisms against the eye, increasing the risk of infection or severe irritation. If wearing contacts is unavoidable, using watertight goggles is especially important, and disposable lenses should be discarded immediately after swimming.
When to Consult a Doctor
While red eyes after swimming are often a temporary irritation, certain symptoms indicate a need for professional medical evaluation. If redness persists for more than a couple of days, or if symptoms worsen despite home care, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Other concerning signs include persistent pain, blurred vision, discharge from the eye, or extreme sensitivity to light. These symptoms could suggest a more serious condition, such as an eye infection or chemical conjunctivitis, which may require specific treatment. Seeking timely medical advice ensures proper diagnosis and prevents potential complications.