Can You Wear Contact Lenses in the Pool?

Whether you’re swimming, doing water aerobics, or relaxing by the water, if you wear contact lenses, you might be wondering: Can I wear them in the pool?

The short answer is no. Swimming with contact lenses can cause eye infections, irritation, and other risks. Water, whether from a pool, lake, or ocean, can bring bacteria to your lenses, putting your eyes in danger. Let’s take a look at why it’s risky and what safer options you have.

Why Swimming with Contact Lenses Is Risky

Although pools are treated with chlorine and other chemicals to reduce bacterial growth, these chemicals aren’t a guarantee of safety. In fact, pools, lakes, and oceans contain countless microorganisms that can cause infections, particularly when you’re wearing contact lenses. Here are the main risks:

Eye Infections

One of the most concerning risks of swimming with contact lenses is infection, especially from Acanthamoeba—a microorganism commonly found in water. This bacteria can lead to Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but serious condition that affects the cornea and can cause permanent vision loss.

Eye Irritation

Chlorine is necessary for keeping pool water clean, but it can also cause irritation when it comes into contact with your eyes. The chemical can bind to your contact lenses, leading to redness, dryness, and discomfort. Chlorine can also disrupt the tear film on your eye, making it harder to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.

Lens Contamination

Contact lenses are designed to sit directly on your eye, and they can absorb water, chemicals, and bacteria. When you swim, these contaminants can adhere to your lenses, remaining in contact with your eye and increasing the chances of an infection or irritation.

What Is Acanthamoeba Keratitis?

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a serious infection that can happen when the Acanthamoeba microorganism, found in water, gets into your eye. It can cause pain and damage to the cornea, leading to vision problems.

Symptoms include:

• Severe eye pain
• Redness
• Blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Feeling like something is in your eye

If untreated, it can cause permanent vision loss or require a corneal transplant. Contact lenses make it easier for harmful germs like Acanthamoeba to reach your eye.

Can I Wear Swimming Goggles with Contact Lenses?

If you absolutely must wear contact lenses while swimming, swimming goggles can offer some protection. Goggles act as a barrier, keeping water away from your eyes and reducing the likelihood of contaminants reaching your lenses. However, this solution is not foolproof.

Goggles can sometimes leak, and even a small amount of water exposure can bring bacteria or chemicals into contact with your lenses. A safer, more reliable alternative is to opt for prescription goggles, which provide clear vision without needing contact lenses at all—ensuring a risk-free solution for swimmers.

Daily Disposable Lenses: A Safer Alternative

If you’re determined to wear contact lenses while swimming, daily disposable lenses are your best option. These single-use lenses are discarded after a single wear, reducing the risks of water exposure. However, it’s essential to follow proper care guidelines to minimize risk.

Here are some tips if you plan to use daily disposable lenses while swimming:

• Remove and discard your lenses immediately after swimming.
• Avoid reusing lenses, even for a short time.
• Carry a backup pair of glasses just in case your lenses need to be removed during your swim.

Though daily disposables can reduce some risks, we still recommend opting for safer alternatives like prescription goggles or refractive surgery / LASIK if you’re a frequent swimmer.

Other Alternatives for Water Activities

Here are a few alternatives to wearing contact lenses while swimming:

• Prescription goggles: These provide clear vision without the need for contact lenses, ensuring safe and comfortable swimming.
• Swimming without correction: If your prescription is mild, you may manage swimming without corrective lenses, avoiding irritation and infections.
• Refractive surgery: Procedures like LASIK offer a permanent solution, eliminating the need for glasses or contacts, perfect for active swimmers.

During your next eye exam, our team can help you explore the best options for your lifestyle.

What to Do If You Accidentally Wear Contacts in the Pool

Sometimes accidents happen. If you find yourself in the pool with contact lenses in, it’s important to take the following steps to minimize the risks:

1. Remove your lenses immediately: As soon as you’re out of the water, take your contact lenses out.
2. Discard or disinfect: If you’re using daily disposables, discard them. For reusable lenses, clean and disinfect them thoroughly with the recommended solution.
3. Monitor your eyes: Keep an eye out for any symptoms such as redness, pain, or blurry vision in the hours or days following your swim. If any of these occur, seek medical attention from your optometrist right away.
4. Schedule a check-up: If you’re concerned about the health of your eyes, schedule an appointment with our optometrists for a full eye exam.

Protecting Your Eyes Year-Round

Protecting your eyes should always be a priority. While it may seem convenient to wear contact lenses while swimming, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Consider safer alternatives like prescription goggles, daily disposable lenses, or even refractive surgery for worry-free water activities. At Whitby Family Eye Care, we’re committed to helping you find the best solutions for your eye health. Whether you’re interested in contact lenses, prescription goggles, or exploring long-term vision correction options, our doctors are here to assist. Book an appointment today to discuss how we can help keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear!