Wearing contact lenses gives you clear vision without the hassle of glasses, but there are two major mistakes that could cost you your sight: swimming and showering in your contacts.
Never Swim in Your Contacts
Whether it’s a pool, lake, or hot tub, swimming with contact lenses is a big no-no. Water is full of bacteria, fungi, and parasites like Acanthamoeba, which can get trapped under your lenses and cause serious infections — sometimes even leading to blindness. One of the most dangerous outcomes is Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but extremely painful eye infection that can require months of treatment or even a corneal transplant.
Contact lenses act like sponges, soaking up harmful microorganisms and chemicals in the water. Chlorine, salt, or even natural elements can warp the lenses, causing discomfort, blurry vision, and potential damage to your cornea. Even with goggles, water can leak in and pose a risk.
What to do instead? Use prescription swim goggles to maintain your vision and protect your eyes. If that’s not an option, consider switching to glasses while near water or ask your doctor about vision correction surgery.
Never Shower in Your Contacts
You might not think twice about stepping into the shower with your contacts in, but tap water is far from sterile. Even a quick rinse can introduce bacteria like Pseudomonas or Serratia and lead to painful infections. Just ask Rachel Prochnow, who lost vision in one eye after unknowingly showering with her lenses in and developing Acanthamoeba keratitis.
Water exposure can also make lenses swell, stick to your eye, and cause irritation or abrasions. Steam and humidity can dry them out, making removal more difficult and uncomfortable.
If you get water in your eyes while wearing contacts, take them out immediately, rinse your eyes with sterile saline or artificial tears, and dispose of the lenses. Monitor for redness, pain, or vision changes — and see an eye doctor right away if symptoms appear.
Your safest bet? Always take your contacts out before swimming or showering. Your vision is worth the extra minute.
