How to Protect Your Eyes When Swimming in the Pool

Whether swimming is an exercise or a form of relaxation for you, it can’t be denied that pool water can irritate your eyes. The good thing is that you can prevent this from happening.

Here are seven simple ways you can protect your eyes while having fun at the pool.

7 Ways to Protect Your Eyes

1. Wear watertight goggles to protect your eyes from contaminants. If you’re regularly swimming, this will help reduce your eyes’ exposure to chlorine, which can irritate the cornea and cause your eyes to become dry.
   
2. Make sure to remove your contact lenses. The space between the eye and the contact lens can become a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. To keep your vision clear when in the pool, consider getting prescription goggles.
   
3. If you have dry eyes, you can use gel tears before putting on your goggles. These are thicker artificial tears that help protect the tear film. You can also check with eye doctors if prescription eye drops would be better for you.
   
4. Use lubricating eye drops before and after swimming. This will keep the tear film balanced and your eyes comfortable.
   
5. Wash your eyes after swimming in order to remove chlorine and other chemicals from your eyelashes and eyelids. Make sure to close your eyes as you splash fresh water on them.
   
6. If you experience irritated or burning eyes after swimming, flush your eyes with eye wash or tap water for approximately 15 minutes.
   
7. Keep yourself hydrated. This is an essential part of keeping your eyes moist and comfortable.

Watch Out For Eye Infection Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your eye doctor right away.

• Red eyes
• Blurry vision
• Severe pain
• Discharge from your eyes
• Swelling of the eyes
• Tearing
• Eyes that are sensitive to light

Insight Vision Center are experts in eye care and Ortho-k treatments. Call us at (714) 486-3315, or fill out our contact form to request a consultation. We serve customers in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa, CA, and the surrounding areas.