Wearing contact lenses is a common and convenient way to correct vision, but these medical devices require specific care to ensure eye health. A frequent question among wearers is whether it is acceptable to keep contacts in while showering. The unanimous consensus from eye care professionals is a clear “No.” Exposing contact lenses to water introduces significant risks, ranging from immediate physical discomfort and lens damage to the possibility of severe, sight-threatening infections.
The Dangers of Water Exposure
Tap water is not sterile and contains various minerals, chemicals, and microorganisms that are harmful when introduced to the eye via a contact lens. The most immediate issue relates to the physical interaction between the water and the lens material, especially soft lenses. Soft contact lenses are designed to maintain a specific shape in an isotonic solution, similar to the natural tear film.
When exposed to hypotonic tap water, the lens material absorbs water and swells significantly. This swelling changes the lens shape and fit, often causing it to adhere too tightly to the cornea. This tight adhesion makes the lens difficult to remove and increases the risk of scratching the delicate surface of the eye.
Water also washes away the protective tear film that lubricates the eye and lens interface. Removing this tear film increases friction, leading to irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation. Minerals and disinfectants, such as chlorine, can also deposit onto the lens surface, contributing to cloudiness and reducing oxygen transmission to the cornea. This physical irritation makes the eye more vulnerable to biological contamination.
Understanding Acanthamoeba Keratitis
The most serious biological risk associated with water exposure is the potential for Acanthamoeba keratitis. Acanthamoeba is a microscopic protozoan commonly found in sources like tap water, well water, hot tubs, lakes, and oceans. While rare, the infection is difficult to treat and can result in devastating outcomes for the eye.
The amoeba adheres readily to the surface of a contact lens, especially one compromised by water exposure. If the cornea has a minor scratch or abrasion—more likely after water-induced lens adhesion—the amoeba can invade the tissue. Once inside, the organism causes keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea, leading to severe pain and light sensitivity.
Acanthamoeba is resilient and can transform into a cyst form, making it resistant to many standard treatments. Treating the infection often requires a prolonged regimen of specialized topical medications. In severe cases, the damage to the cornea is irreversible, often necessitating a corneal transplant or leading to permanent vision loss.
Immediate Steps After Accidental Exposure
If water accidentally splashes into your eyes while wearing contact lenses, prompt action is necessary. The first step is to immediately remove the contact lenses. Do not rub your eyes or flush them out before removal, as this could trap contaminants beneath the lens.
After removal, discard the exposed lenses immediately, especially if they are daily disposable lenses. If you wear bi-weekly or monthly lenses, do not rinse them with water or saline. Instead, clean them thoroughly with a fresh batch of recommended disinfecting solution and allow them to soak for the minimum recommended disinfection time.
If your eyes feel irritated, red, or painful following the water exposure, consult an eye care professional without delay. Mention the water exposure during the consultation, as this helps the doctor consider potential causes of irritation or infection. Wearing glasses until your eyes feel completely comfortable again is a good precautionary measure.