Did you know that approximately 45 million people in the United States wear contact lenses? With such a large number of individuals relying on contacts for clear vision, it’s important to understand the best practices for contact lens care. One common question that arises is whether it is safe to shower with contacts in. Many people may not realize the potential risks associated with exposing their lenses to water, including the presence of harmful microorganisms.
The history of contact lenses dates back to the late 19th century, with significant advancements in materials and design occurring over the years. Today, contact lens wearers have access to a variety of options, including daily disposables, extended wear lenses, and specialized lenses for different vision needs. Despite these advancements, it’s crucial for contact lens wearers to be aware of the potential risks and best practices for maintaining their eye health.
One important tip for contact lens wearers is to avoid showering or swimming while wearing their lenses. Water, whether it’s from the shower, pool, or hot tub, can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms to the eyes, increasing the risk of infection. In fact, studies have shown that wearing contact lenses while showering or swimming can significantly increase the likelihood of developing a serious eye infection. To minimize this risk, it’s recommended to remove contact lenses before coming into contact with water.
In addition to avoiding water exposure, contact lens wearers should also follow proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands before handling lenses, using recommended cleaning solutions, and adhering to the prescribed wearing schedule. By staying informed and practicing good habits, contact lens wearers can help protect their eye health and enjoy clear vision without compromising safety.
Is it Safe to Shower with Contacts In? Tips for Contact Lens Wearers
Many contact lens wearers wonder whether it is safe to shower with their contacts in. The answer to this question is that it is not recommended to wear contact lenses while showering. The water in the shower can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms to the lenses, increasing the risk of eye infections. In addition, wearing contacts in the shower can also increase the chances of the lenses coming into contact with harsh chemicals, such as shampoo or soap. To learn more about the potential risks and tips for contact lens wearers, continue reading the full article.
Is it Safe to Shower with Contacts In? Tips for Contact Lens Wearers
Many contact lens wearers wonder whether it’s safe to shower with their contacts in. The short answer is no, it is not safe to shower with contacts in. This is because water, whether it’s from the tap, shower, pool, or hot tub, can introduce harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and amoeba, to your eyes. These microorganisms can adhere to the surface of your contact lenses and cause eye infections, such as bacterial keratitis or Acanthamoeba keratitis.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), contact lens wearers are at a higher risk for eye infections if they expose their lenses to water. Additionally, the American Optometric Association (AOA) also recommends avoiding exposing your contact lenses to water, including while showering.
Tips for Contact Lens Wearers
Here are some tips for contact lens wearers to keep their eyes safe and healthy:
- Always take out your contacts before showering, swimming, or using a hot tub.
- Use daily disposable contacts or remove and clean your reusable contacts after being exposed to water.
- Avoid wearing your contacts in environments where they may come into contact with water, such as in steam rooms or saunas.
- Follow your eye care professional’s recommendations for proper contact lens care and hygiene.
By following these tips, contact lens wearers can reduce their risk of eye infections and keep their eyes healthy.
In conclusion, it is not safe to shower with contacts in, as doing so can increase the risk of eye infections. Contact lens wearers should prioritize their eye health by following proper hygiene practices and avoiding water exposure while wearing their contacts.
Can I shower with my contacts in?
It is not safe to shower with your contacts in, as water can introduce harmful bacteria to your lenses and lead to eye infections.
Can I swim with my contacts in?
No, it is not recommended to swim with your contacts in, as water from pools, hot tubs, lakes, or oceans can also lead to bacterial contamination and increase the risk of eye infections.
What can happen if I shower or swim with my contacts in?
Showering or swimming with contacts can increase the risk of developing microbial keratitis, a serious and painful infection of the cornea.
How can I protect my eyes while swimming or showering?
- Remove your contacts before swimming or showering
- Consider using prescription goggles to allow clear vision while swimming
- Avoid getting any water in your eyes while showering
What should I do if I accidentally shower or swim with my contacts in?
If this happens, remove your contacts immediately and clean them thoroughly with contact lens solution before wearing them again.
Can I wear waterproof contact lenses while swimming?
No, there are no waterproof contact lenses available. It is still not safe to wear any type of contact lenses while swimming.
Is it safe to wear daily disposable contacts while swimming or showering?
No, it is not recommended to wear daily disposable contacts while swimming or showering. Water exposure can still pose a risk of infection.
Can I wear my contacts in the sauna or steam room?
No, it is not safe to wear contacts in environments with high heat and humidity, as it can cause lenses to dry out and become uncomfortable.
Can I wear my contacts in the rain?
It is generally safe to wear contacts in the rain, as long as you avoid getting any water directly in your eyes.
What are the best practices for contact lens wearers in relation to water exposure?
- Always remove your contacts before swimming or showering
- Avoid wearing contacts in hot and humid environments like saunas
- Be cautious when wearing contacts in rainy conditions to prevent water from entering your eyes
Conclusion
Overall, while it may be tempting to shower with your contacts in, it is not recommended by eye care professionals. The risk of waterborne bacteria and other potential contaminants entering the eye can lead to serious eye infections and complications. It’s important to remember to always remove your contacts before showering or swimming to ensure the safety and health of your eyes.
To maintain good hygiene and care for your contact lenses, it’s essential to follow a few simple guidelines. Always wash your hands before handling your contacts and use the appropriate solution to clean and store your lenses. Avoid sleeping or swimming with your contacts in to reduce the risk of eye infections and discomfort. Additionally, be sure to follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for wearing and caring for your contacts. By taking these precautions and staying informed, contact lens wearers can protect their eyes and enjoy clear, comfortable vision.