Eye care professionals have issued an urgent warning to contact lens wearers. Regardless of whether you use daily disposables or monthly lenses, there is a crucial step you shouldn’t skip. Vision Direct advises that while stepping into the shower for a few minutes might seem convenient to be able to see, it can actually cause several problems.
Describing it as a “serious no-no,” eye specialists emphasize the importance of removing contacts before showering, bathing, or swimming to prevent infections. They explain: “The root of the issue is that water, no matter its source, can increase your eyes’ susceptibility to contamination by harmful bacteria. This bacteria can reside in tap water (even in showerheads or on sponges), swimming pools, the sea, or hot tubs, raising the chances of unpleasant eye infections and irritations.”
Your lenses absorb water rapidly, and prolonged exposure heightens the risk of trapping dangerous microorganisms against your eye. One particularly harmful microorganism is Acanthamoeba, which can lead to a rare but severe eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis.
This condition requires immediate treatment because it can cause corneal inflammation and, in extreme instances, might result in vision loss. Besides the risk of blindness, experts point out that soft contact lenses are highly porous and quickly absorb water.
When lenses get wet, they can alter shape, causing discomfort and blurry vision. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid swimming in any kind of water while wearing contact lenses unless using watertight goggles to prevent leaks and potential harm.
Showering with your contact lenses can increase your risk of several eye issues, including:
- Swelling
- Teary eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
- Feeling like there’s something stuck in your eye
Have you ever worn contact whilst swimming or in the shower? Let us know in the comments
