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The Truth About
Contact Lenses and Water Exposure
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CDC data shows that 35.5% of wearers have rinsed lenses in tap water, and 16.8% have stored them that way (cdc.gov). For our region, that’s about 297,000 people rinsing and 141,000 storing lenses in tap water, both risky habits that eye doctors strongly advise against. Wearing contact lenses in water, whether swimming, showering, or using a hot tub, may seem harmless, but it can pose serious risks to your eye health. Water can introduce bacteria and other harmful microorganisms to your eyes, increasing the chance of infection and irritation. At ReFocus Eye Health, we want to help you understand why it’s important to avoid exposing your contact lenses to water and how to protect your eyes while enjoying your favorite activities safely. Offering expert, compassionate eye care in Northeast Philadelphia, with patients visiting us from across the area, including Philadelphia, Camden and Bucks County.
How Water Harms Your
Contact Lenses and Eyes
When it comes to maintaining healthy eyes, contact lens care is crucial. Water, whether from a tap, lake, or pool, is not designed for cleaning or storing contact lenses. Instead of a sterilized environment, water often contains bacteria and other contaminants that can harm your eyes.
Most people think water is clean enough for everyday use, but even a seemingly clean water source can harbor harmful germs. Among the most dangerous is Acanthamoeba, a microorganism that can lead to a severe corneal infection if it gets trapped behind your contact lenses. According to the CDC, this organism is found in diverse water sources, making every drop of water a potential risk if it comes into contact with your lenses.
Water exposure can also compromise the structural integrity of soft contact lenses. When lenses absorb water, they can lose their proper shape, potentially causing discomfort or even irritation from the lens sticking to your eye. This may lead to issues like corneal abrasions, which in severe cases could compromise your vision. Here’s the thing: even if you’re in a pinch without your usual cleaning solution handy, water is simply not a safe substitute for proper lens care.
Dr. Elisa Bano, OD, is a contact lens specialist offering full-scope eye care for all ages, including routine eye exams, custom and complex contact lens fittings, and treatment for a wide range of eye conditions and emergencies.
Consequences of Wearing Contacts in Water
Preventing Eye Problems with
Correct Contact Lens Care
Your eyes deserve the best care possible, and maintaining a strict routine with your contacts is key. Using the appropriate solutions not only disinfects your lenses but also help maintain their structure. Our eye doctors always emphasize that proper lens hygiene is essential for eye health.
Here are some simple guidelines to keep in mind:
- Always store your lenses in a disinfecting solution recommended by our eye doctors.
- Avoid using water, regardless of the source for rinsing or storing your lenses.
- If you accidentally expose your lenses to water, remove them immediately and switch to a new pair.
- Keep extra solutions on hand to avoid any situations where you might be tempted to use water as a substitute.
Safe Options When You Don’t Have Contact Solution
Sometimes you might find yourself without your regular contact lens solution. Here’s the good news: there are safer alternatives to water that you can consider in a pinch. Saline solution is one such substitute. It’s designed to keep your lenses hydrated and is a much better option than water.
If you ever find yourself without contact solution, consider these steps:
Managing Contact Lenses During Swimming and Water Sports
It’s not just accidental splashes or rain that pose a risk, the dangers extend to water activities like swimming, hot tubs, and water sports. Wearing contact lenses during these activities can significantly increase your risk of contamination since all water sources carry some level of microorganisms.
What To Do If You Accidentally
Expose Your Contacts to Water
We all have moments where an accident happens, and sometimes, you might find that your lenses have come in contact with water. In such cases, the most important step is to act swiftly and carefully to prevent potential eye irritation or infection.
If you discover that your contact lenses have been exposed to water even for a few moments, here’s what you can do:
Protecting Your Eyes with Proper Contact Lens Care
Experts You Can Trust for Contact Lens Safety Serving Philadelphia, Camden and Bucks County
Wearing contact lenses in water can increase your risk of eye infections and complications. At ReFocus Eye Health, our expert eye doctors emphasize safe contact lens practices to protect your vision and eye health. We’re here to provide you with the knowledge and personalized care needed to enjoy your contacts safely in any environment. Trust us to help you prevent infections and maintain comfortable, healthy eyes every day. Providing exceptional eye care in Northeast Philadelphia, proudly serving patients from across the region, including Camden, Center City, Bucks County, and surrounding communities.
At ReFocus Eye Health Philadelphia, formerly known as Soll Eye, you’ll find a tradition of care that spans over six decades. Conveniently located on Grant Avenue, our practice has become a trusted name in comprehensive eye care for patients throughout Philadelphia, Camden and Bucks County. Whether you need a routine eye check or are considering advanced surgery, our experienced team is committed to providing personalized, expert care. With a legacy of excellence and a reputation for treating patients like family, we deliver care that’s not only advanced, but genuinely personal.