Swimming With Scleral Lenses: What You Need to Know

Swimming is a fantastic way to stay fit and enjoy the water, but for those who wear scleral contact lenses, there are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure both comfort and eye health. Scleral lenses offer superior comfort and the ability to add the most complex optics necessary for vision correction. However, their unique design also necessitates special care when engaging in water activities.

The Risks of Swimming with Scleral Contact Lenses

1. Contamination: Swimming pools, lakes, and oceans contain various microorganisms and chemicals that can adhere to the surface of scleral lenses. These contaminants can cause eye infections, irritation, or even damage to the lenses themselves.
   
   
2. Lens Displacement: The physical activity involved in swimming can potentially dislodge scleral lenses from the eye. This can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, the loss of a lens.
   
   
3. Dryness and Discomfort: Prolonged exposure to water, especially chlorinated pool water, can cause or worsen dryness and discomfort. This is particularly problematic for scleral lens wearers, who often rely on the lenses to treat Ocular Surface Disease.

Swimming with Hydra-PEG Coated Scleral Lenses

Tangible Hydra-PEG is made to improve wettability and comfort. It may seem intuitive that the coating will help to reduce dryness and discomfort during swimming. However, it’s important to note that water exposure can damage the Hydra-PEG coating over time. Chlorine, salt, and other chemicals can degrade the coating, leading to reduced effectiveness and comfort.

What Does the CDS Say About Swimming in Contact Lenses?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly advises against swimming with contact lenses, including scleral lenses, due to the significant risk of eye infections. Water in swimming pools, lakes, and oceans can contain various microorganisms and chemicals that may adhere to the lenses and cause infections, such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. This severe infection can be extremely painful and difficult to treat. 

https://www.cdc.gov/contact-lenses/about/healthy-habits-keeping-water-away-from-contact-lenses.html#:~:text=Overview,reduce%20the%20risk%20of%20infection

Tips for Swimming Safely with Scleral Contact Lenses

Use Swim Goggles: Wearing tight-fitting swim goggles can help protect your eyes from water exposure. This is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of contamination and keep your lenses securely in place. 

Rinse and Disinfect Immediately: After swimming, remove your scleral lenses as soon as possible and rinse them thoroughly with the appropriate cleaning solution. Flush your eyes with preservative-free saline before reapplying your lenses. Follow your eye care provider's instructions for disinfecting the lenses to eliminate any potential contaminants and protect the Hydra-PEG coating.

Avoid Swimming in Natural Bodies of Water: Lakes, rivers, and oceans are more likely to contain harmful microorganisms than chlorinated pools. If you do swim in these environments, take extra precautions, such as using swim goggles and promptly cleaning your lenses afterward.

Conclusion

Swimming in scleral lenses presents some challenges and is rarely recommended. When this kind of exposure is unavoidable, taking the right precautions can help you enjoy the water safely. Always consult with your eye care professional to tailor these tips to your specific needs. By being mindful and prepared, you can make the most of your swimming experience without compromising your vision or eye comfort.