What You Need to Know About Swimming Pools and Your Eyes

Arizona summers bring triple-digit temperatures that send many residents running for the nearest swimming pool. While it’s second nature to load up on sunscreen to protect your skin against the intense desert heat, many people forget to protect their eyes from pool chemicals. If you swim a lot, you may have dry, red eyes to contend with. Learn how to protect yourself in the pool and how to treat swimmer’s eye.

In the meantime, if you need relief from chronic eye conditions related to swimming, contact Swagel Wootton Eye Institute to set up an appointment for an eye exam. We have the best eye doctors in Mesa and Chandler when it comes to treating and preventing corneal injuries and other conditions related to frequent exposure to water in swimming pools.

Pool Chemicals and Your Eyes

Your eyes are covered with a tear film made of water, lipids, and protein. This film keeps your eyes moist and helps clear away debris that blows into your eyes. Saline and chlorine, which are common pool chemicals, break down this protective layer, which can leave your eyes red and irritated. Further, these chemicals may cause your eyes to become more susceptible to any bacteria lurking in your pool and the surrounding area.

Is Swimming Like a Fish Hurting Your Eyes?

If you develop an eye infection following frequent swimming, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Redness
• Tearing
• Pain
• Light sensitivity
• Blurry vision
• Discharge
• Swelling

Nasty discharge, blurry vision and discomfort are no fun — but help isn’t far away. Visit our eye doctors in Mesa and Chandler for immediate care. Your vision is one of your most precious commodities, and we’re here to help you maintain optimal eye health.

Treatment for Swimmer’s Eye, Dry Eyes and Conjunctivitis

Chlorine and other pool chemicals are designed to kill bacteria and germs that can make you sick. However, some bacteria may survive chlorination, get in your eye and cause conjunctivitis or another infection. Medicated eye drops help your eyes heal from infections while eye drops that mimic natural tears can relieve dry, itchy eyes.

For more information on the right treatment for your condition, consult with one of our ophthalmologists.

Protect Your Peepers in the Pool

There are things that you can do to protect your eyes while you’re in the pool. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) highly recommends that you take your contacts out prior to swimming.

Prescription goggles can clear your vision underwater and protect you from bacteria and chemicals in your swimming pool.

Did you know that you can use an eyewash to clear out chlorine, sand, bacteria, and other contaminants from your eyes? Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep eye drops handy to help moisten your eyes and prevent red, itchy swimmer’s eye. By keeping your eyes hydrated and protected, you can prevent chronic dry eyes and enjoy your laps in the pool without putting your eye health at risk.

Eye Exams and More in Mesa and Chandler

Contact Swagel Wootton Eye Institute for treatment if summer swimming has left you with sore, irritated eyes. You can also visit our optical center for protective eyewear, eye drops and other products to protect your eyes. We specialize in cataract and LASIK surgery in Mesa and Chandler and offer comprehensive eyecare for the whole family any time of year.