Swimming with contact lenses - your guide from Mister Spex
For many people, contact lenses are a practical and comfortable alternative to glasses, offering greater freedom of movement and a more natural visual experience. But what if you like to spend your leisure time in the water? The question of whether you can swim with contact lenses is often a source of uncertainty and concern. In this article, we explain what you need to know about swimming with contact lenses.
Risks of swimming with contact lenses
Swimming with contact lenses carries a number of risks that shouldn't be underestimated. Natural water sources such as lakes and oceans, as well as chlorinated pool water, contain microorganisms and impurities. If these particles get trapped between your eye and contact lens, the risk of eye infection increases significantly. Chlorine and other chemicals in pool water can also damage the surface of your lenses, reducing their quality and causing eye irritation.
Another common problem is dislodging or losing contact lenses while swimming. Water can affect the fit of the lens on your eye, causing it to shift or fall out. As well as being inconvenient, this can temporarily affect your vision and lead to potential eye problems. In extreme cases, the shifting lens can cause small scratches on the surface of the eye, leading to further health complications.
Swimming with contact lenses in different types of water
The risk of wearing contact lenses while swimming can vary depending on the type of water. In pools, the water is usually treated with chlorine to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms, but these chemicals can damage your lenses and irritate your eyes. In the sea, salt water and sand particles can irritate your eyes and lenses. Swimming in lakes exposes you to naturally occurring microorganisms that can cause infections. Mister Spex offers a wide range of contact lenses and customer service experts for more information.
Remember that no body of water is completely risk-free if you wear contact lenses. It's always advisable to take special precautions before swimming or to use special types of lenses that are more suitable for such activities. Mister Spex can help you choose the best contact lenses for your needs and provide valuable tips to minimise the risk of eye problems when swimming.
Tips for swimming with contact lenses
Use daily disposable lenses: If you plan to go swimming, daily lenses are a good option. They are designed for single use and can be disposed of after swimming, reducing the risk of infection.
Waterproof swimming goggles: Waterproof swimming goggles are essential when swimming with contact lenses. They protect your eyes and lenses from water and debris.
Do not sleep with your lenses: Even if your lenses are designed for extended wear, it's not advisable to sleep in them, especially if you've been swimming. There is an increased risk of eye infection if lenses worn while swimming are left in overnight.
Regular cleaning and disinfection: If you don't use daily disposable lenses, it's important to thoroughly clean and disinfect your lenses after swimming.
Carry a spare pair: Always have an extra pair of lenses with you in case your current lenses shift or become damaged while swimming.
Use eye drops: Saline solution or special eye drops can help refresh your eyes and soothe any irritation after swimming.
Test before diving: If possible, put on your goggles and contact lenses before you swim and submerge your head briefly to make sure everything fits properly.
Seek professional advice: If you have any questions or concerns, it's always a good idea to seek professional advice. Mister Spex offers extensive guidance on this topic and will help you find the best products for your needs.
Conclusion: Top tips for swimming with contact lenses
In summary, swimming with contact lenses carries a number of risks that shouldn't be taken lightly. From infection to lens loss, there are many problems that can occur. However, with the right precautions and products, these risks can be minimised. If you have any questions or are looking for the ideal contact lenses or goggles for your needs, Mister Spex has the expertise and a wide range of products to help you. With the right preparation and the right products, you can enjoy your time in the water with confidence.
