Contact lenses should never be worn in the shower because this can lead to an eye infection known as keratitis, which is very serious. Not only is this infection very painful, but it’s also hard to treat, and once it is in your eye, proteins will be released, which will dissolve your cornea and allow the organism to enter the cornea, where it will consume the corneal cells.
Redness, excessive tearing, blurred vision, and a gritty sensation in your eye are all early symptoms, and in severe situations, this infection can lead to blindness, so it’s a risk that’s not worth taking, and contact lenses must be removed before you shower. Failure to remove your contacts will increase your risk of infection because the lens will trap the infection in your eye, and this is why contact lenses should never be exposed to any water.
In addition to this terrible infection, showering with your contact lenses can also cause your lenses to swell as they are very similar to sponges and will absorb water particles and swell when exposed to water. Shower water can contain bacterial irritants which can cause an eye infection if they come into contact with the surface of your eye, which is very delicate. Hot showers can also cause contact lenses to dry out and shrink, and your lens can adhere to the surface of your eye, which would be very painful. If this happens, you should not remove the lens until you have hydrated your eye, so use saline eye drops to lubricate your eye and try to blink the lens lose. A stuck lens can scratch your cornea, making it easier for germs to get into your eye and lead to an infection.
Your eyes can flush out soap, but this is not as easy when wearing contact lenses, and soap, shampoo, and any other shower products can contaminate your lens. No product should ever come into contact with your lenses as this can lead to eye irritation, so if this ever happens, you need to remove your lenses right away. Disinfect them overnight in a clean case filled with fresh contact lens solution, and don’t forget to remove them the next time you shower.
Showering with your contact lenses is a very big risk as it can present you with several consequences, all of which are entirely avoidable. This habit must be broken, and switching to daily disposables is one idea you can consider as these are very convenient.
Orangeville Optometric Centre can discuss solutions, and we will provide you with additional information regarding the importance of removing your contact lenses while showering or swimming. It’s always better to be safe, and you can rely on our team when it comes to your vision and eye health. Contact us today if you have any questions or want to schedule an eye exam!
