Are Your Contacts Safe From Pool Chlorine?

Are you planning on taking a dip in the pool with your contact lenses on? Think again. While swimming in a chlorinated pool can be refreshing on a hot summer day, it can pose a risk to your contact lenses and eyes.

Many people are unaware of the risks involved in swimming with contact lenses, and even more so, the impact that pool chlorine can have on your eyes. The chemicals used in pools to kill bacteria and viruses can damage your contact lenses and cause irritation and other eye problems.

In this article, we’ll explore the effects of chlorine on contact lenses and the eyes, the risks of swimming with contacts, and what you can do to keep your eyes safe while enjoying the pool. Keep reading to find out more!

What is Chlorine?

Chlorine is a chemical element widely used for disinfecting swimming pools and other water systems. It is added to pool water to kill harmful bacteria and algae. Chlorine works by oxidizing and destroying harmful organic matter, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Chlorine is added to pool water in different forms, including gas, liquid, and solid. The most common form of chlorine used in swimming pools is hypochlorite, which is available as a liquid or granular powder. Hypochlorite releases hypochlorous acid, which is responsible for killing bacteria and other harmful organisms in pool water.

While chlorine is essential for maintaining pool hygiene, it can cause eye irritation, skin dryness, and other health problems if not handled correctly. Chlorine levels in swimming pools should be carefully monitored to ensure that they are within safe levels.

Chlorine reacts with organic matter in pool water to form chloramines, which give off a strong odor and can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems. High levels of chloramines can make swimming in the pool unpleasant and unhealthy.

In summary, chlorine is a powerful disinfectant used to keep swimming pools clean and safe. However, it should be used with caution and in appropriate amounts to prevent health problems and maintain pool hygiene.

Chemical Properties of Chlorine

Property	Description	Effect on Contacts
Chlorine gas	Green-yellow gas with a pungent odor.	Can cause irritation, redness, and tearing.
Hypochlorous acid	Formed when chlorine gas dissolves in water.	Can break down the proteins in contact lenses, causing them to deteriorate.
Chloramine	Formed when chlorine reacts with sweat, urine, and other organic matter in the pool.	Can cause eye irritation and redness.
pH level	Chlorine works best in a pH range of 7.2 to 7.8.	If the pH level is too high or too low, it can cause irritation and discomfort to the eyes.

Understanding the chemical properties of chlorine can help you better protect your eyes and contact lenses while swimming. It’s important to note that while chlorine can have negative effects, it is also crucial for maintaining a clean and safe swimming environment. By taking proper precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of swimming without sacrificing the health of your eyes and contact lenses.

How Does Chlorine Affect Contacts?

Chlorine is a harsh chemical that can cause eye irritation and dryness, making it difficult to wear contact lenses. When chlorine reacts with the proteins in your tears, it can create a film on your contacts, reducing their clarity and making them uncomfortable to wear.

This film can also trap bacteria and other particles, increasing the risk of eye infections. In addition, chlorine can cause your contact lenses to shrink and harden, making them more likely to break or crack.

While some people may not notice any issues while wearing contacts in a chlorinated pool, others may experience significant discomfort. Those with sensitive eyes may want to take extra precautions when swimming with contacts.

It’s also important to note that the longer you wear your contacts in a chlorinated pool, the greater the risk of damage and discomfort. So, even if you don’t experience any problems initially, it’s still best to remove your contacts as soon as possible after swimming.

If you must wear contacts while swimming, consider using disposable lenses, as they can be discarded immediately after swimming and reduce the risk of infection and irritation.

Symptoms of Eye Irritation from Chlorine

Eye irritation from chlorine exposure is a common problem for swimmers, particularly those who wear contact lenses. Some of the symptoms of eye irritation caused by chlorine include redness, itching, tearing, burning, and a feeling that there is something stuck in your eye. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to take steps to alleviate them as soon as possible.

One way to help reduce the symptoms of chlorine exposure is to use lubricating eye drops or artificial tears before and after swimming. These can help flush out any residual chlorine in your eyes and reduce irritation.

Another way to minimize the risk of eye irritation from chlorine is to wear swim goggles. Swim goggles protect your eyes from chlorine exposure and other harmful pool chemicals, as well as bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present in the water.

If you experience severe or persistent eye irritation from chlorine exposure, it’s important to seek medical attention. A doctor can prescribe medications or recommend other treatments to help alleviate your symptoms and prevent further damage to your eyes.

Overall, it’s important to be aware of the risks of chlorine exposure when swimming, particularly if you wear contact lenses. By taking steps to protect your eyes and reduce your exposure to chlorine, you can enjoy swimming without compromising your eye health.

Can Chlorine Damage Contact Lenses?

Chlorine is a powerful oxidizing agent and can be harmful to certain materials. Contact lenses are no exception, and can potentially be damaged by exposure to pool water.

One of the primary materials used to make contact lenses is hydrogel, a water-absorbing polymer that can become dehydrated and distorted when exposed to chemicals like chlorine.

Over time, repeated exposure to chlorine can cause microscopic cracks and pits to form on the surface of contact lenses, which can trap bacteria and other harmful substances, leading to infections and other eye problems.

Even if your contact lenses do not appear damaged after swimming in a chlorinated pool, they may still be contaminated with harmful substances that can cause irritation or infection.

If you wear contact lenses and frequently swim in chlorinated pools, it’s important to take precautions to protect your eyes and lenses from potential damage.

Effects of Chlorine on Soft Contact Lenses

Discoloration: The discoloration of contact lenses is a common issue when exposed to chlorine. The lenses can turn a yellowish or greenish color and may become hazy. This discoloration can affect the wearer’s vision and also the aesthetic appeal of the lenses.

Dryness: Chlorine can strip the natural moisture of the contact lenses, causing them to become dry and uncomfortable to wear. This can lead to irritation and a gritty feeling in the eyes. Dryness can also cause the lenses to stick to the eyes, making them difficult to remove.

Changes in shape: Soft contact lenses can change shape when exposed to chlorine. This change can result in the lenses fitting improperly, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the eyes.

Deterioration: The chlorine can also cause the soft contact lenses to deteriorate over time, leading to a shorter lifespan of the lenses. The deterioration can cause the lenses to become brittle and easily breakable.

Effects of Chlorine on Hard Contact Lenses

Discoloration: Hard contact lenses may become discolored after exposure to chlorine. They can turn yellow or brownish in color, which can impact the wearer’s vision.

Cracking or Chipping: Chlorine exposure can cause hard contact lenses to crack or chip, which can damage the lens and affect vision. In severe cases, the lens may even break apart, rendering it useless.

Reduced Lifespan: Hard contact lenses that are frequently exposed to chlorine may have a shorter lifespan than those that are not. This is because the chlorine can weaken the material over time, causing it to become more brittle and prone to damage.

Irritation: Chlorine exposure can also cause irritation to the eyes of hard contact lens wearers. This can include redness, itching, and burning sensations, which can be uncomfortable and distracting.

It is important for hard contact lens wearers to take precautions when swimming in chlorinated water. Protective eyewear, such as goggles or swim masks, can help reduce the risk of chlorine exposure and protect the lenses from damage. Alternatively, switching to soft contact lenses for water activities may be a better option for some wearers.

How to Clean and Store Contact Lenses After Swimming

• Remove your contacts immediately after swimming: As soon as you get out of the pool, take out your contacts to prevent chlorine from getting trapped between your eyes and lenses.

• Rinse your contacts thoroughly: Rinse your contacts with contact lens solution to remove any chlorine residue. Make sure to rub them gently to remove any debris that may have accumulated on the lenses.

• Disinfect your contacts: Once you’ve rinsed your contacts, disinfect them with contact lens solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will kill any bacteria that may have accumulated on the lenses while you were swimming.

• Store your contacts properly: Store your contacts in a clean, dry case to prevent contamination. Make sure to replace your contact lens case every three months to prevent bacteria from building up inside.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your contacts are safe from chlorine and that you can continue to enjoy swimming without any worries.

What are the Risks of Swimming with Contacts?

Bacterial Infections: Wearing contact lenses in water increases the risk of bacterial infections, as the lenses trap water and bacteria between the lens and the eye.

Corneal Abrasions: Swimming with contacts can increase the risk of corneal abrasions, as sand, debris, or pool chemicals can get trapped between the lens and the eye.

Chemical Burns: Exposure to pool chemicals, such as chlorine, can lead to chemical burns on the eyes, especially if you wear contacts while swimming.

Eye Irritation: Even if you don’t get an infection or an injury, wearing contact lenses while swimming can still cause eye irritation, redness, and discomfort.

Lost or Damaged Contacts: There’s also a risk of losing or damaging your contacts while swimming, as the lenses can easily fall out or get dislodged during water activities.

Bacterial Infections and Corneal Ulcers

Bacterial infections are one of the most serious risks of swimming with contacts. Water in swimming pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water can contain harmful bacteria that can enter the eye and cause infection.

If not treated promptly, bacterial infections can lead to a corneal ulcer, which is an open sore on the cornea that can cause significant pain, redness, and sensitivity to light. In severe cases, corneal ulcers can even lead to vision loss.

People who swim with contacts are at a higher risk of developing bacterial infections and corneal ulcers, especially if they wear their contacts for extended periods or do not properly clean and store them after swimming.

To prevent bacterial infections and corneal ulcers, it is important to avoid swimming with contacts whenever possible. If you must swim with contacts, use daily disposable lenses and discard them immediately after swimming. Alternatively, wear swim goggles to protect your eyes and remove your contacts before swimming.

Eye Injuries from Swimming with Contacts

Scratched Cornea: Contacts can easily get dislodged while swimming and sand or debris can get trapped between the lens and your eye, causing a scratched cornea. This can be extremely painful and cause blurred vision.

Chemical Burns: Chlorine and other chemicals used in swimming pools can cause irritation and redness of the eyes. In severe cases, it can even cause chemical burns, which can lead to vision loss.

Eye Infections: Bacteria and other microorganisms in the water can cause infections in the eye, especially if the contacts are not properly disinfected before and after swimming. This can lead to redness, swelling, and discharge from the eye.

Loss of Contacts: Rough waves, diving, or other activities in the water can cause contacts to become dislodged or fall out, leading to the risk of infection or damage to the eye.

Increased Risk of Contact Lens Dislodgment

Wearing contact lenses while swimming can increase the risk of dislodgement, particularly during high-intensity activities like diving or water skiing.

The force of water against the lens can cause it to move or come out of the eye entirely, leading to potential vision problems and discomfort.

Even if the lens stays in place, it may not sit properly on the eye, leading to irritation and blurred vision.

In addition, contact lenses may become looser and less secure after exposure to water, which can make them more likely to dislodge during subsequent activities.

To avoid the risk of dislodging your contact lenses, it is recommended that you wear airtight goggles or switch to prescription swimming goggles instead.

How to Protect Your Eyes from Chlorine?

Wear goggles: Wearing swimming goggles is the most effective way to protect your eyes from chlorine. Choose goggles with UV protection and a comfortable fit.

Use eye drops: If your eyes feel irritated or dry after swimming, use artificial tears or eye drops to flush out chlorine and soothe your eyes.

Shower before swimming: Taking a quick shower before swimming can help reduce the amount of dirt and bacteria on your body, which can react with chlorine and cause eye irritation.

Avoid rubbing your eyes: Rubbing your eyes can introduce bacteria and irritants into your eyes, which can worsen any irritation caused by chlorine. If your eyes feel itchy or irritated, use eye drops instead of rubbing them.

Wear Swim Goggles

• Protect Your Eyes – Swim goggles form a tight seal around your eyes and provide a barrier between your eyes and the water. They help to prevent eye irritation, redness, and itching caused by chlorine in the pool.

• Choose the Right Goggles – Look for goggles that fit properly and have a UV coating. This coating will help to protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays of the sun.

• Keep Goggles Clean – Rinse your goggles in cold water after swimming to remove any chlorine or saltwater. Dry them with a clean towel and store them in a case to prevent scratches.

Wearing swim goggles is an effective way to protect your eyes from the damaging effects of chlorine. Whether you’re a professional swimmer or just enjoy a casual swim, goggles can help you enjoy your time in the water without sacrificing your eye health.

Use Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses and frequently swim, you may want to consider using daily disposable contact lenses. These types of lenses are designed to be worn once and then discarded, which can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial infections and other eye problems associated with swimming while wearing contact lenses.

Another benefit of daily disposable contact lenses is that they are easy to use and require no cleaning or maintenance. Simply insert a fresh pair of lenses each time you swim and dispose of them afterward. This can save time and reduce the risk of damage to your lenses or eyes from improper cleaning or handling.

Pre-Swim Eye Drops

If you’re prone to dry eyes, using lubricating eye drops before swimming can help prevent irritation and reduce the risk of infection. Look for drops that are specifically formulated for contact lens wearers and safe for use in the eyes. Apply one to two drops in each eye before putting in your contact lenses.

Pre-swim eye drops can also help create a barrier between your eyes and the water, reducing the amount of chlorine or other chemicals that can come into contact with your lenses. Remember to remove your contact lenses and discard them properly after swimming, even if you use pre-swim eye drops.

Preventing Eye Irritation from Pool Water

Shower before swimming: Taking a shower before entering the pool can reduce the amount of bacteria on your body.

Avoid rubbing your eyes: Rubbing your eyes when they feel irritated can make it worse. Try to avoid touching your eyes and if you have to, make sure your hands are clean.

Wear swimming goggles: Wearing swimming goggles can help keep the pool water out of your eyes and reduce irritation.

Use eye drops: Using lubricating eye drops before and after swimming can help soothe and hydrate your eyes.

Shower Before Swimming

One of the best ways to prevent eye irritation from pool water is to shower before swimming. Chlorine is added to pools to kill germs and bacteria that can cause infections, but it can also cause irritation to the eyes and skin. Showering before swimming can help remove any sweat, oils, and cosmetics on your body, which can react with chlorine and other chemicals in the pool water.

Additionally, wetting your hair before getting into the pool can also help reduce the amount of pool water that gets into your eyes, which can cause irritation. Use fresh water to wet your hair, as the shower water may contain bacteria or other contaminants that can get into the pool.

Remember to rinse off after swimming as well, as the chlorine can continue to irritate your skin and eyes even after you get out of the pool.

Are Prescription Swim Goggles the Answer?

Swimming with visual impairment can be challenging. Without proper vision correction, it can be difficult to see where you are going or navigate the pool lanes. Prescription swim goggles offer a solution to this problem.

Prescription swim goggles are specially designed for people with vision problems. They have corrective lenses built into the goggles that help swimmers see clearly while in the water. This can make swimming more enjoyable and safer for people who wear glasses or contacts.

Prescription swim goggles come in different styles and lens options. Some goggles have interchangeable lenses that allow swimmers to customize the goggles to their specific prescription. Others have fixed lenses that are pre-made to certain prescriptions.

Prescription swim goggles require a prescription from an eye doctor. It’s important to get an accurate prescription for the goggles to ensure they are effective and comfortable to wear.

Prescription swim goggles can be more expensive than regular goggles. However, they are a worthwhile investment for people who swim regularly and have vision problems.

Benefits of Prescription Swim Goggles

Improved vision: Prescription swim goggles can correct your vision and provide crystal-clear vision while you’re in the water.

Comfort: Prescription goggles are more comfortable to wear than regular goggles because they are tailored to your specific prescription, which means they fit better and won’t cause discomfort.

Types of Prescription Swim Goggles

Prescription swim goggles come in a variety of types to suit different needs. Standard prescription swim goggles come with prescription lenses built-in and are suitable for most swimmers. Custom prescription swim goggles are made-to-measure for individuals with complex prescriptions or unique facial features. Optical swim masks are designed for individuals who need a stronger prescription than can be accommodated in swim goggles. They cover the entire eye area and provide a wider field of vision.

Another type of prescription swim goggles is the adaptable prescription swim goggles, which allows the wearer to adjust the lens power depending on the level of correction needed. This type of goggles is suitable for swimmers who have different prescriptions for each eye or for those who need different levels of correction for distance and reading.

There are also prescription swim goggles designed for specific activities, such as triathlon goggles or open water swim goggles. These goggles typically feature additional design elements, such as anti-fog coating or polarized lenses, to enhance performance in those activities.

How to Choose the Right Prescription Swim Goggles

Get your prescription from your eye doctor. Before purchasing prescription swim goggles, you’ll need to know your current prescription for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Make sure to get an updated prescription from your eye doctor before making a purchase.

Determine the lens type you need. Prescription swim goggles come in various lens types, including single-vision, bifocal, and progressive. Single-vision lenses correct one type of vision problem, while bifocal lenses correct two. Progressive lenses are similar to bifocal lenses but offer a seamless transition between the two prescriptions.

Choose the lens material. Prescription swim goggles are typically made of polycarbonate or Trivex lenses, which are durable and impact-resistant. They are also available in glass lenses, which offer superior clarity but are heavier and more prone to breakage.

Select the right frame. The frame of your prescription swim goggles should fit comfortably and snugly around your eyes without causing any irritation or discomfort. Look for frames with adjustable straps to ensure a proper fit, and consider purchasing goggles with cushioned frames for added comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions