Can I Swim with Contact Lenses? Everything You Need to Know for Safe Water Activities

Key Takeaways

Swimming with contact lenses is generally not recommended due to risks of infection, lens loss, and eye irritation. However, if you must wear them in water, daily disposable lenses offer the safest option. For optimal eye health during water activities, consider prescription goggles or consult with your eye care professional about the best alternatives. Quality contact lenses from trusted sources like Bella Lense can provide better comfort and safety when water exposure is unavoidable.

Swimming season brings exciting water adventures, but for contact lens wearers, it also raises important questions about eye safety. Whether you're planning a beach vacation, hitting the local pool, or enjoying water sports, understanding the relationship between contact lenses and water activities is crucial for maintaining healthy vision.

Can You Swim With Contact Lenses

Water-Related Contamination Concerns

Contact lenses act like tiny sponges that can absorb water and any microorganisms it contains. When you swim with contacts, you expose your eyes to various waterborne pathogens that can cause serious infections.

Common water contaminants include:

• Bacteria (E. coli, Pseudomonas)

• Parasites (Acanthamoeba)

• Viruses

• Chemical disinfectants (chlorine)

• Natural organic matter

Acanthamoeba Keratitis: A Serious Risk

One of the most concerning risks associated with wearing contacts in water is Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but potentially sight-threatening infection. This parasitic infection is particularly associated with:

• Swimming pools

• Hot tubs

• Lakes and rivers

• Even tap water

The microscopic parasite can become trapped under contact lenses, creating an ideal environment for infection to develop.

Lens-Related Complications

Beyond infection risks, swimming with contacts can cause several mechanical problems:

Lens displacement or loss:

• Water pressure can shift lenses

• Swimming motions may dislodge contacts

• Diving can create pressure changes affecting lens position

Chemical irritation:

• Chlorine can chemically alter lens materials

• Salt water can dehydrate lenses

• Pool chemicals may cause burning or stinging

Types of Water Activities and Associated Risks

Swimming Pools

Chlorinated pools present unique challenges for contact lens wearers. While chlorine helps kill bacteria, it can also:

• Cause lens material to break down

• Lead to eye irritation and redness

• Create an uncomfortable burning sensation

• Potentially trap harmful microorganisms against the eye

Natural Bodies of Water

Lakes, rivers, and oceans carry higher contamination risks due to:

• Naturally occurring bacteria and parasites

• Agricultural runoff

• Wildlife contamination

• Varying water quality conditions

Hot Tubs and Spas

These environments are particularly risky because:

• Warm water promotes bacterial growth

• Chemical levels may be inconsistent

• Higher concentration of contaminants from multiple users

• Steam can affect lens hydration

Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers

The Safest Approach: Remove Before Swimming

The most recommended practice is to remove contact lenses before any water activity. This approach:

• Eliminates infection risk

• Prevents lens loss

• Avoids chemical irritation

• Ensures optimal eye health

If You Must Wear Contacts in Water

Sometimes removing contacts isn't practical, especially for those with significant refractive errors. If you must wear them:

Choose daily disposable lenses:

• Can be discarded immediately after water exposure

• Reduce risk of contamination buildup

• Most hygienic option available

• Quality daily lenses offer better safety profiles

Use waterproof goggles:

• Create a barrier between water and eyes

• Prevent direct water contact with lenses

• Reduce risk of lens displacement

• Essential for underwater activities

Post-Swimming Eye Care

After any water exposure with contacts:

1. Remove lenses immediately

2. Rinse eyes with sterile saline

3. Discard daily lenses

4. Clean and disinfect reusable lenses thoroughly

5. Monitor for symptoms of infection

Alternative Solutions for Water Activities

Prescription Swimming Goggles

Custom prescription goggles offer excellent alternatives:

• Provide clear vision underwater

• Protect eyes from contamination

• Available in various prescription strengths

• Eliminate contact lens risks entirely

Prescription Sports Eyewear

For water sports and beach activities:

• Impact-resistant materials

• UV protection

• Secure fit during active movement

• Clear vision without contact lens concerns

Temporary Vision Correction

Consider these options for occasional water activities:

• One-day contact lenses worn briefly

• Prescription sunglasses for surface activities

• Reading glasses for poolside activities

When Water Exposure Is Unavoidable

Professional Guidelines

Eye care professionals generally agree that if water exposure with contacts is unavoidable:

Use daily disposable lenses:

• Highest safety profile

• Immediate disposal after use

• Reduced contamination risk

Wear protective eyewear:

• Watertight swimming goggles

• Prescription masks for snorkeling

• Safety glasses for water sports

Practice immediate post-exposure care:

• Remove lenses as soon as possible

• Rinse eyes with sterile solution

• Watch for signs of irritation or infection

Emergency Situations

If contacts come into contact with contaminated water:

1. Don't panic

2. Remove lenses immediately

3. Flush eyes thoroughly with clean water

4. Seek medical attention if irritation persists

5. Contact your eye care provider

Signs of Water-Related Eye Infections

Early Warning Symptoms

Watch for these signs after water exposure:

• Redness and irritation

• Excessive tearing

• Light sensitivity

• Feeling of something in the eye

• Blurred vision

Serious Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care

Seek emergency medical attention for:

• Severe eye pain

• Sudden vision loss

• Thick discharge

• Persistent redness after 24 hours

• Worsening symptoms

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for Active Lifestyles

Material Considerations

Different lens materials offer varying levels of water resistance and safety:

Silicone hydrogel lenses:

• Better oxygen transmission

• Less likely to harbor bacteria

• More comfortable during extended wear

Daily disposable options:

• Highest hygiene standards

• Convenient for travel and sports

• Reduced risk of contamination buildup

Professional Consultation

Working with an eye care professional helps ensure:

• Proper lens selection for your lifestyle

• Understanding of specific risks

• Personalized safety recommendations

• Access to high-quality lens options

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shower with contact lenses?

While brief shower exposure is less risky than swimming, it's still not recommended. Tap water can contain harmful microorganisms, and soap or shampoo can irritate eyes. If you must shower with contacts, keep eyes closed and consider using daily disposables.

What about hot tubs and jacuzzis?

Hot tubs present particularly high risks due to warm water that promotes bacterial growth. The combination of heat, chemicals, and potential contamination makes this one of the riskiest water environments for contact lens wearers.

Are there waterproof contact lenses?

Currently, no contact lenses are specifically designed to be waterproof. All contact lenses can absorb water and potentially trap contaminants against the eye surface.

How long should I wait after swimming to put contacts back in?

If you've been swimming without contacts, ensure your hands are completely clean and dry before handling lenses. Wait until any residual pool chemicals or contaminants have been thoroughly rinsed from your face and hands.

What's the difference between pool water and ocean water for contact lens safety?

Both present risks, but for different reasons. Pool water contains chlorine and other chemicals that can irritate eyes and damage lenses. Ocean water contains salt that can dehydrate lenses, plus natural bacteria and microorganisms.

Can I use contact lens rewetting drops after swimming?

If you've worn contacts while swimming, the priority should be removing them immediately rather than treating them with drops. Rewetting drops won't eliminate contamination risks.

Making Informed Decisions About Water Activities

Swimming with contact lenses requires careful consideration of risks versus benefits. While it's not recommended, understanding proper precautions can help minimize dangers when avoidance isn't possible.

Key decision factors include:

• Type of water activity

• Duration of exposure

• Availability of alternatives

• Individual risk tolerance

• Access to proper post-exposure care

Planning Ahead for Water Activities

Successful contact lens wearers who enjoy water activities often:

• Invest in prescription swimming goggles

• Keep backup glasses available

• Use daily disposable lenses when water exposure is possible

• Carry sterile saline for emergency eye rinsing

• Have a clear plan for post-activity lens care

Conclusion

While swimming with contact lenses poses inherent risks, understanding these dangers and taking appropriate precautions can help protect your vision. The safest approach remains removing contacts before water activities, but when this isn't feasible, daily disposable lenses combined with protective eyewear offer the best compromise.

Remember that your vision is irreplaceable, and the temporary inconvenience of alternative vision correction methods far outweighs the potential for serious eye infections or permanent vision damage. Always prioritize eye health and consult with your eye care professional about the best strategies for your specific lifestyle and vision needs.

Whether you're a competitive swimmer, casual beach-goer, or water sports enthusiast, having a clear plan for contact lens management around water activities ensures you can enjoy aquatic adventures while protecting your precious sight.