Can you Swim with Contact Lenses?

Optometrists advise contact lens wearers to adhere to the “three S rule”: abstain from swimming, showering, or sleeping in their lenses. This precautionary measure is recommended due to the potential for irritation and, in severe cases, serious infections.

Water, including tap water, swimming pools, oceans, lakes, hot tubs, and showers, can harbor various pathogens and parasites, with acanthamoeba being the most hazardous. Acanthamoeba can attach to contacts and infiltrate the cornea, leading to vision loss in extreme cases.

Swimming with contact lenses

Swimming with contact lenses is strongly discouraged, even in chlorinated water, as harmful bacteria and organisms can thrive. Soft contact lenses, being porous, can absorb chemicals and bacteria, causing irritation and infection. They may also tighten and deprive the eyes of oxygen when exposed to fresh water.

Rigid gas permeable lenses, while more breathable, pose a risk of dislodging and should not be worn in pools. It is advised to remove contacts before swimming, especially if minimal correction is needed, and carrying a spare pair is recommended.

Prescription Goggles

Prescription goggles provide a solution for maintaining clear vision and protecting eyes from infection during water activities. Due to the different refractive index of water compared to air, even individuals with perfect vision on land may experience blurry vision underwater.

Swimming goggles are available with basic prescriptions or can be customised for specific prescriptions, offering features such as anti-fog solutions, UV protection, and shatterproof lenses. Optometrists can guide individuals on choosing the most suitable option.

If you must swim with contact lenses

If swimming with lenses is unavoidable, wearing daily disposable lenses and watertight goggles can offer additional protection.

It is crucial to discard the lenses immediately after swimming, rinse the eyes with rewetting drops, and insert a fresh pair to minimise the risk of exposing the eyes to harmful bacteria acquired during swimming.