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The Hidden Dangers of Wearing Contact Lenses in the Shower or Pool
Author
Mr Emil Kurniawan
Specialist areas: Corneal, Laser Vision Correction, Lens Replacement Surgery, Cataracts, Implantable Collamer Lens, Keratoconus Surgery
06 May 2025
Avoiding the Dangers of Your Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses offers convenience and freedom from glasses—but that freedom comes with responsibility. Many are unaware that wearing contact lenses in the pool or shower can pose serious risks to eye health. Water may seem harmless, but it can harbour microorganisms and irritants that increase the likelihood of infection, sometimes with long-term consequences.
Why Water and Contact Lenses Don't Mix
Water from pools, showers, hot tubs, lakes, and even tap water is not sterile. It can contain harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and parasites. While these may be harmless when splashed in the eyes briefly, they become dangerous when absorbed or trapped by a contact lens.
One of the most serious risks is Acanthamoeba Keratitis, a rare but sight-threatening eye infection. This parasite can attach to the contact lens surface and reach the cornea, where it causes severe pain, inflammation, and vision loss. Treatment is difficult and prolonged, sometimes requiring a corneal transplant.
Water can also cause soft lenses to warp, stick to the eye, or dry out, making them uncomfortable or difficult to remove.
The Risks of Wearing Contact Lenses in the Shower
Stepping into the shower with your lenses in might seem harmless, especially if you're careful not to get water in your eyes. However, warm water and steam can soften the lens material, increasing the chance of it absorbing waterborne microbes. Once contaminated, the lens acts as a vehicle for infections to reach the cornea.
Contact lenses also reduce the eye’s natural ability to flush out bacteria or irritants. This means even a small splash of water can result in a lingering infection risk.
Wearing Contact Lenses in the Pool: Not Worth the Risk
Chlorinated pool water kills some germs, but not all. Many swimming pools contain residual bacteria or parasites that can survive chlorine exposure. When lenses are worn in the pool, they can absorb these organisms, increasing the risk of infection.
Furthermore, contact lenses can fall out more easily in water. If you're swimming laps or diving, there's a chance you'll lose a lens altogether, leaving you with compromised vision and increased irritation if it remains partially dislodged.
Wearing contact lenses in the pool, even with goggles, is strongly discouraged. Goggles can help reduce exposure, but they don’t guarantee a watertight seal.
Signs of an Eye Infection to Watch For
If you’ve worn contact lenses in water and later experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:
- Redness or persistent irritation
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Pain or a gritty feeling in the eye
- Excessive tearing or discharge
Early intervention is critical. Many infections are treatable, but delays can lead to complications.
Best Practices for Safe Contact Lens Wear
To reduce the dangers of contact lenses, always follow these guidelines:
- Remove lenses before any water exposure, including showers, pools, or hot tubs
- Never rinse or store lenses in tap water
- Clean your lenses only with the appropriate disinfecting solution
- Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling lenses
- Replace your lens case regularly and keep it clean
- Better still, consider whether contact lenses are still the right solution for your lifestyle.
If you frequently swim, travel, or lead an active lifestyle, alternatives like vision correction surgery may offer greater long-term freedom and peace of mind.
Why Laser Eye Surgery Could Be the Safer Alternative
For many patients, laser eye surgery offers a permanent solution to the inconvenience and risk associated with contact lens wear. Whether you’ve been wearing lenses for years or have recently started, it’s worth exploring whether you’re a candidate for procedures such as LASIK or LASEK or SmartSight.
At OCL Vision, our experienced consultants offer thorough assessments to determine the best treatment based on your prescription, eye health, and lifestyle. We understand that the decision to undergo vision correction surgery is personal, and we’re here to guide you with transparent, professional advice.
By eliminating the need for daily lens wear, you also eliminate many of the associated hygiene risks—including those that come with wearing contact lenses in the shower or contact lenses in the pool.
Book a Consultation to Explore Your Options
If you're concerned about the dangers of contact lenses or simply want to experience life without the daily hassle, we invite you to book a consultation. Our team of expert ophthalmologists will talk you through all your options, including laser eye surgery, lens replacement surgery, or other personalised treatments.
Take the first step towards safer, more convenient vision correction. Book your consultation today and discover how we can help you protect your eyes for the long term.
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