Summer Swimming Eyecare Tips

Summer and swimming often go hand in hand. But swimming can pose a danger to your eyes. In some cases, you might just develop eye irritation. In other instances, something more serious can happen.
​
Fortunately, with a little education and by taking a few precautions, you can enjoy summer swimming and keep your eyes healthy.

Summer swimming and the eyes

It is important to protect your eyes from whatever may be lurking in the water. Different bodies of water may have the potential to cause varied eye problems. For instance, swimming in a pool may pose different risks to your eyes than swimming in a river. Below are some eye problems that can develop. 

Swimmers eye

Swimmers eye, also called chemical conjunctivitis, involves irritation due to chemicals in a swimming pool, such as chlorine. But it is not just the chlorine that can lead to problems.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sweat, dirt, dead skin cells, and products that wash off a swimmer’s body can also cause trouble for the eyes.

The combination of the chlorine and things that wash off a swimmer create irritants called chloramines. This can cause eye symptoms, such as:

• Itchiness
• Red eyes
• Burning
• Swollen eyelids
• Excessive eye watering
  

​ 

Infection

An eye infection can occur due to bacteria, viruses, and fungi invading the eye. Swimming and getting water in your eyes can potentially be a source of fungi and bacteria, leading to infection. For example, a serious infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis, can lead to vision loss.

The infection is caused by a single-celled ameba that lives in the soil, lakes, and the ocean. It can cause inflammation of the cornea called keratitis. Symptoms may include eye pain, redness, and decreased vision. 
​

Dry eyes 

The tear film that covers the surface of the eye helps the eyes stay moist. Chemicals in swimming pools can possibly wash off the tear film, increasing the risk of dry eyes. You may especially be at an increased risk of dry eyes if you spend time in the pool every day.  

Tips for safe summer swimming for eye health  

Swimming is a great way to exercise and cool off during the summer. You don’t have to stop taking a dip in the water. By taking a few precautions, you can continue to enjoy the water and protect your eyes. Consider the following suggestions:

Wear swim goggles: Buy a pair of water-tight swim goggles, which will help protect your eyes from contamination. Goggles also reduce your risk of eye irritation from chemicals.

Don’t wear contacts: Take out your contact lenses before going swimming. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, wearing contacts in the water increases your risk of eye problems. If you need to see sharper in the water, consider investing in a pair of prescription swim goggles.

Wipe water from the eyes: After swimming, flush your eyes with water to decrease irritation. This is helpful regardless of the body of water you swim in.

Stay well-hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep the eye film healthy. It is easy to become dehydrated during the summer. So be sure to drink enough water.

Recognize signs of an eye infection: Recognizing signs of an eye infection as early as possible can help you get proper treatment and prevent serious complications. If you develop signs of an eye infection, see an eye doctor immediately.

Signs of an eye infection include:

• Eye pain
• Yellow discharge from the eyes
• Redness
• Sensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing
• Vision changes

If you have any questions about how to protect your eyes in the water, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.