Eye care experts have issued a stark warning to anyone who wears contact lenses. Whether you wear daily disposables or monthly ones, people are being warned to do one thing. According to Vision Direct, whilst stepping in the shower – even for a few minutes – seems ideal as you will be able to see, doing this can cause many issues.
Calling it a “serious no-no” the eye experts stress to always remove contacts before you shower, bathe or swim – or risk an infection. It explains: “This all boils down to the fact that water, regardless of where it’s from, can make your eyes more vulnerable to contamination by harmful bacteria. This bacteria that can be found in tap water (even in the showerhead or on sponges), a swimming pool, the sea or a hot tub, increases the risk of nasty eye infections and eye irritations.”
Because your lenses absorb water quickly, extended exposure increases the risk of trapping harmful microorganisms against your eye. One of the most dangerous is Acanthamoeba, which can cause a rare but serious eye infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis.
This condition requires prompt treatment, as it can lead to corneal inflammation and, in severe cases, may result in vision loss. As well as potentially going blind, the experts note that soft contact lenses are highly porous and absorb water rapidly.
When they become wet, they can change shape, leading to discomfort and blurred vision. Because of this, it’s best to avoid swimming in any type of water while wearing contact lenses – unless you’re using watertight goggles to prevent leaks and potential damage.
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