Swimming with Contacts

One of the most common questions optometrists receive regarding swimming with contacts is simple… “Can I wear contacts in the water?” While the answer is technically “yes.” You can physically get into a swimming pool, a lake, or the ocean while you are wearing contact lenses, we recommended that you remove them before putting your head under water.

Why Avoid Swimming with Contacts?

There are a couple of possible negative consequences of swimming with contacts. First, there’s a real danger of losing your contact(s) the moment your head goes in the water. Also, recreational swimming pools typically serve as a type of playground for young children. And, young children enjoy splashing, kicking in the water, and using water guns. This leaves you vulnerable to getting water in your eyes, which may result in the loss of your lens(es).
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Second, all bodies of water – even those treated with typical pool-cleaning chemicals – contain bacteria. Therefore, wearing contact lenses in such water perpetuates the probability that your eyes suffer from a bacterial infection. An infection requires medical intervention and treatment.

What If I Want to go Swimming with Contacts Anyway?

If you feel strongly about wearing contacts while swimming, the least-risky type is disposable or daily-wear lenses. This type of lens may reduce the risk of developing an infection or eye problems as a result of getting water in your eye. In other words, if you want to take this route, make sure to talk with your optometrist about the pros and cons of daily-wear lenses. Follow all recommendations and instructions for keeping your lenses as clean as possible.

Another option for wearing contacts while swimming is protecting your eyes with high-quality goggles. Inexpensive goggles or those that consistently leak are not recommended. Non-prescription waterproof goggles are easy to find. Goggles are also inexpensive when compared to the price of treating an eye infection or losing a pair of extended wear or specialty contact lenses.

Do Prescription Goggles Work?

If you love swimming, and you do it often, prescription goggles are beneficial. By wearing prescription goggles while swimming, you eliminate the risks associated with wearing contacts and getting your head wet. Also, prescription goggles eliminate the possibility of losing your contact(s) in the water.

For serious and recreational swimmers, prescription goggles are handy and helpful. Available in several brands and styles, prescription goggles help you see clearly when swimming laps or simply enjoying yourself near water.

View Our Extensive Selection of Eyewear Today!

For all types of contact lenses, glasses, high-quality goggles, or prescription goggles, visit Elite Vision Care in League City, TX, or give us a call at (281) 554-7080. Our facility features an extensive eyewear boutique. Our experts help you find vision wear that makes swimming more enjoyable!