Think Your Contact Lenses Are Just for Clear Vision? Think Again.

 

Many of us view contact lenses as simple visual aids. But with great convenience comes significant responsibility, especially when it comes to water.

That quick swim on a summer day or a rinse in the shower while wearing your contact lenses might seem harmless, but it carries a hidden risk. Water, whether from a pool, the ocean, or your tap, is not sterile. It can contain microorganisms like the Acanthamoeba parasite.

When you expose your lenses to water, these bacteria and parasites can get trapped behind the lens against your cornea. This can lead to a serious, sight-threatening infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. The CDC and the American Academy of Ophthalmology explicitly warn against this practice.

Treating such an infection can require months of intensive, antiseptic eye drops and may still result in permanent vision loss or the need for a corneal transplant.

So, what's the safe solution for swimmers who need vision correction?

The Gold Standard: Prescription Swim Goggles. This is the safest option as it completely eliminates the risk of water-borne pathogens touching your lenses.

A Practical Alternative: Daily Disposable Lenses under Water-Tight Goggles. If you must wear contacts, use daily disposable lenses paired with tight-fitting swim goggles. Discard the lenses immediately after your swim. Do not sleep in them or reuse them.

A pro-tip from ophthalmologists: Avoid wearing two-week or monthly reusable contact lenses for swimming, as they can harbor pathogens and significantly increase the risk of infection.

Your vision is irreplaceable. A simple, informed choice about your contact lenses can protect them for a lifetime.

What other questions do you have about eye care safety? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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