Swimming at Spruce Run: The Serious Infection Risks of Wearing Soft Contacts in the Water

A summer swim at Spruce Run can be refreshing, but entering the water while wearing soft contact lenses can place your eye health at risk. Lakes, pools, rivers, hot tubs, and even tap water may contain microorganisms that should never come into contact with your lenses. The CDC recommends removing contact lenses before swimming or participating in other water activities.

Soft contact lenses rest directly on the cornea and can trap contaminated water against the eye. Microorganisms may attach to the lens surface, remain beneath the lens, and increase the risk of a serious corneal infection. Even clear-looking water at Spruce Run is not sterile, and goggles do not guarantee that water will stay away from your eyes.

The Risk of Acanthamoeba Keratitis

One of the most concerning water-related infections is Acanthamoeba keratitis. Acanthamoeba is a microscopic organism found in many water sources. When it becomes trapped beneath a contact lens, it can infect the cornea and cause severe pain, inflammation, and permanent vision damage if treatment is delayed.

Contact lens wearers are also vulnerable to bacterial and fungal keratitis. These infections can progress quickly and, in severe cases, may lead to corneal scarring, vision loss, or the need for a corneal transplant. Mild irritation after swimming should not automatically be dismissed as allergies or dryness.

Warning Signs After Swimming in Contacts

Remove your lenses immediately and contact an eye doctor if you notice:

• Increasing eye pain or redness
• Sudden blurred or reduced vision
• Unusual sensitivity to light
• Excessive tearing or discharge
• A persistent feeling that something is in your eye

Do not rinse the affected lens with tap water or place it back in your eye. Avoid wearing another pair until an eye doctor confirms that it is safe. Prompt evaluation matters because symptoms of a corneal infection can worsen even after the contact lens has been removed.

Safer Vision Options for Spruce Run

The safest approach is to remove soft contact lenses before entering the water. Prescription swim goggles can provide clear vision without placing a lens directly on the cornea. Standard tight-fitting goggles may reduce water exposure, but they should not be treated as complete protection when contacts are worn.

Bring glasses, a clean contact lens case, fresh disinfecting solution, and a spare pair of lenses when spending the day near the water. Never store contacts in water, reuse old solution, or rinse a lens case under the faucet. Daily disposable lenses may be convenient for outdoor activities, but they still need to be removed before swimming.

Contact Lens Care Tailored to Your Eyes

A professional contact lens exam can help determine whether your current lenses provide the right fit, comfort, and vision for your lifestyle. It is also an opportunity to review safe wear habits and discuss alternatives such as prescription swim goggles or daily disposable contacts for activities away from the water.

Protect your eyes before your next day at Spruce Run and schedule a contact lens exam with Hunterdon Family Eye Care in Annandale, NJ, at (908) 730-6774.