If you're planning a trip to the beach down south, we're confident you'll bring sunscreen and sunglasses. Do you have your contacts in your bag as well?
The beach and contacts can be a dangerous combination at times, and we want to help you safeguard your vision while still having fun on vacation!
Our team of experts has prepared all of the information you'll need to keep your eyes and contacts safe over the spring break.
I WILL, HOWEVER, WEAR GOGGLES!
If you prefer to swim with contacts, wear waterproof swim goggles to limit the risk of bacterial infection and irritation. Swim goggles will safeguard your contact from slipping out of your eye while you're swimming.
However, taking out your contacts and putting on a pair of prescription goggles before leaping into the water is the best approach to avoid getting an infection in your eyes when swimming.
SWIMMING AND CONTACTS
Swimming with contacts in is never a good idea since bacteria can get into your eyes. Contacts should not be exposed to any type of water, including tap water, pool water, or ocean water, according to the FDA.
Many viruses live in water, including the hazardous Acanthamoeba organism, which adheres to contact lenses and can infect and inflame the cornea. This can result in long-term vision loss or necessitate a corneal transplant to restore vision.
Other infections, such as a corneal ulcer, can arise when swimming with contacts. Corneal ulcers develop when a bacterial infection infects the cornea, and contact lens wearers are more prone to eye irritation because the lens rubs on the eye's surface.
I WILL, HOWEVER, WEAR GOGGLES!
If you prefer to swim with contacts, wear waterproof swim goggles to limit the risk of bacterial infection and irritation. Swim goggles will safeguard your contact from slipping out of your eye while you're swimming.
However, taking out your contacts and putting on a pair of prescription goggles before leaping into the water is the best approach to avoid getting an infection in your eyes when swimming.
CONTACT CARE AND OCEAN WATER
So you've opted to swim with your contacts on. After swimming, our skilled opticians recommend removing the lenses, cleaning your eyes with artificial tears, and replacing your contacts with a new pair.
If you develop eye irritation or light sensitivity after wearing your contacts in the water, see your eye doctor right away.
Have a wonderful and safe spring break!