Summer Eyecare for Swimmers

This seems to be the hottest summer this year. With the mercury levels at all time high and the merciless heat waves making to the news headlines, it seems to be a good idea to dive into a pool. For summer is the right time to take a cool dip and enjoy pool parties. But amidst all the fun, don't ignore your eyecare, especially if you are out in the water and under the direct glare of the sun.

“Swimmer's Eye” is a very common symptom swimmers face even if they are in the pool even for five minutes. It is the chlorine in the pool water which is one of the culprits of several eye problems.

Dr. Madhavilatha - Sr.Consultant (Cataract & Refractive), MaxiVision Super Specialty Eye Hospitals, Hyderabad explains, “Chlorine is given in the water so as to fight germs but it is also the chlorine which can lead to eye infections. One must wear goggles while swimming as it helps to reduce the chances of any infection.”

Sometimes proper hygienic protocols are not followed while cleaning the pool and that also results in conjunctivitis and other eye infections. Since the water contains germs that are not visible to naked eyes, for that too swimming goggles are vital.

Dr. Madhavilata explains, “Those who wear contact lenses also need to wear goggles. Generally inside the water you don't need to see much and your eyes remain closed but still if you need to wear contact lenses it is advisable you wear the disposable ones. The use and throw contact lenses can help and of course the goggles will provide neccessary protection.”

However, there are others who advise not to wear contact lenses at all while swimming. Since the chemicals in the water can stick to the contact lenses and cause infections. So it is best to remove them and if you can't see at all then wear presciption goggles. But makesure its leakproof .

People develop dry eye while swimming as a result it becomes itchy and red. For that you need to wash your eyes after swimming. Keep your eyes hydrated with eye drops prescribed by an opthalmologist. No self medication here!

Dr. Madhavilata says, “If there is redness in the eyes then one must visit the doctor. The doctor will find out the nature of conjunctivitis after examination. He or she needs to differentiate between conjunctivitis that are caused due to the exposure to chemicals, insects and parasites. On which basis diagnosis and treatment takes place.”

Though many swimming pools are placed indoors so chances of UV ray exposure is less. But what if you are out on the beach or a poolside party on a warm summer day, sounds legit. You should wear sunglasses that provides maximum protection against the sun's harmful UV rays. Dr. Madhavilata advises to wear sunglasses even on cloudy days and whenever you are outdoors.

So here are some pointers before you take that cool plunge are-

Like you don't forget your swimming cap to protect your hair from chlorine, don't ever forget your water tight goggles to safeguard your precious peeps! Whether it is for children or adults this thumb rule applies for all.

Rinse eyes post swimming.

Keep your eyes hydrated always as dry eyes are very common in summers and also for those swimming regularly.

Avoid direct exposure to sunlight if you can between 10am and 2pm. Carry hats, umbrellas and sunglass for eye protection. Sunglass is the sunscreen for your eyes.

Personal hygiene is both important for you and others.

Contact opthalmologist if there is stinging and redness in the eyes.

For appointments :  Dr. Madhavilatha - Sr.Consultant (Cataract & Refractive), MaxiVision Super Specialty Eye Hospitals,Hyderabad.