Swimming in the sea can be a delightful experience, whether you are a professional athlete or simply enjoying a leisurely swim. For those who wear contact lenses, however, there are some things you need to know before diving in.

This article will discuss the potential risks and precautions associated with wearing contact lenses while swimming in the sea.

The Dangers of Swimming with Contact Lenses

While contact lenses are a convenient and effective way to correct vision, they are not designed to be worn when swimming, especially in the sea. There are several reasons why wearing contact lenses while swimming can be problematic:.

Risk of Infection

The ocean water contains various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When you swim with contact lenses, these microorganisms can get trapped between the lens and your eye, increasing the risk of infection.

The combination of warm water and contact lens wear creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to discomfort, redness, and even serious eye infections such as keratitis.

Exposure to Irritants

Seawater often contains irritants such as salt, pollutants, and chemicals, which can cause discomfort and irritation when they come into contact with your eyes.

Contact lenses can trap these irritants against the surface of your eyes, intensifying their effects and potentially leading to dryness, redness, and blurred vision.

Loss or Damage

The ocean can be unpredictable, with waves, currents, and tides posing a risk to contact lenses. Strong waves can forcefully remove your lenses from your eyes, leaving you without clear vision.

Additionally, sand and debris in the water can scratch or damage the lenses, making them uncomfortable or unusable.

Precautions and Alternatives

To ensure your eye health and maintain clear vision while swimming in the sea, it is recommended to follow these precautions:.

1. Use Prescription Goggles

Prescription goggles are a fantastic alternative to contact lenses when swimming. They provide both vision correction and protection against irritants in the water.

Consult with an optometrist to get the right prescription goggles that fit your eyes comfortably and offer optimal vision.

2. Remove Your Contact Lenses

If prescription goggles are not an option, the next best step is to remove your contact lenses before swimming. Store them in a contact lens solution or carry a contact lens case with you.

Once you are out of the water, clean and disinfect your lenses thoroughly before reinserting them. This will help eliminate any potential contaminants that may have come into contact with the lenses during swimming.

3. Avoid Opening Your Eyes Underwater

Even if you decide to keep your contact lenses on while swimming, it is crucial to refrain from opening your eyes underwater. This will minimize the chances of water and microorganisms coming into contact with your lenses and eyes.

If water does get in your eyes, use clean water to rinse them immediately.

4. Limit Your Swimming Time

While it may be tempting to spend hours enjoying the sea, it is advisable to limit your swimming time if you are wearing contact lenses.

The longer you spend in the water, the greater the risk of exposure to contaminants, irritants, and potential infections.

5. Carry Eye Drops and Lubricants

Carrying saline eye drops or lubricants can help alleviate dryness and irritation caused by swimming in the sea. These moisturizing solutions can provide relief to your eyes and reduce the discomfort associated with saltwater exposure.

Conclusion

Swimming in the sea can be a wonderful experience, but it is important to prioritize your eye health when wearing contact lenses. The risk of infection, exposure to irritants, and potential loss or damage to your lenses are all valid concerns.

By following the precautions mentioned above and considering alternatives such as prescription goggles, you can enjoy the sea while preserving your vision and eye health.