Whether it's for a swimming session at the local pool, a moment of relaxation in a jacuzzi, or a holiday by the sea, the idea of keeping your contact lenses in to see clearly is tempting. However, combining lenses and water poses major risks to your eye health.
Here’s what really happens beneath the surface and how to protect your vision without sacrificing your visual comfort.
The real danger: water and micro-organisms
The problem does not come from the lens itself, but from its ability to act like a real sponge. Freshwater, seawater, and even chlorinated water from pools harbour a multitude of bacteria, viruses, and parasites invisible to the naked eye.
The most fearsome of them is the amoeba (Acanthamoeba). This parasite naturally present in water can lodge itself between the lens and your cornea.
What are the main risks?
Acanthamoeba keratitis : A rare but extremely serious infection of the cornea, difficult to treat and potentially permanently affecting vision.
Corneal ulcer : The presence of a foreign body combined with bacteria can create painful lesions on the surface of the eye.
Classic bacterial infections : Pool chlorine eliminates some germs, but it also irritates the eye, making it more vulnerable to conjunctivitis and bacterial keratitis.
Deformation or loss of the lens : In contact with water (especially fresh water), the lens can deform, adhere strongly to the cornea or, conversely, slip and get lost.
Good practices if contact with water is unavoidable
If you have accidentally kept your lenses on while swimming, here are the immediate reflexes to adopt :
Remove them as soon as possible : Do not keep them after coming out of the water.
Prefer daily lenses : If you absolutely must wear them (under a waterproof diving mask, for example), use daily disposable lenses and throw them away immediately after swimming.
Deeply disinfect : If you wear monthly or bi-monthly lenses, thorough cleaning is mandatory. This is where a powerful decontamination system, such as a hydrogen peroxide solution, is essential to effectively eliminate embedded microorganisms.
The alternative solutions from Michils Opticians
Not wearing your contact lenses at the pool does not mean you have to give up your visual comfort. There are safe and effective alternatives. The swimming goggles or corrective diving masks are now very accessible and offer perfect vision safely.
Whether you live near Wezembeek-Oppem or on the side of Tervuren, our contact lens specialists are here to guide you. We can assess the health of your tear film, check the tolerance of your equipment, and offer you the most suitable solution for your aquatic activities.
Take care of your eyes with our experts
Any doubts after a swim? A feeling of redness, pain, or blurred vision? Don't wait to consult.
Need advice or a check-up for your lenses? Come and see us directly in store.
Make an appointment : Easily plan your visit or eye test via our Agenda or by phone at 02 772 70 75.
Michils Opticians: High technical expertise and local advice to preserve your visual health.