We all go swimming in pools and most of us think nothing of it. We know that chlorine is present and it really becomes more of an irritant to our skin afterwards than anything else. But we wanted to take the opportunity to let you know that chlorine can impact your eyes and it may not be in a way you think.
Chlorine is used in swimming pools as a great way to control bacteria and to prevent pathogens and disease from spreading. However, when your eyes are submerged in a chlorinated pool, the film of tear across your eyes to protect it is washed away. This means that your eyes are no longer protected from dirt of bacteria. This is important because chlorine cannot entirely eliminate all bacteria or dirt from a pool.
The result, if you’re a pool swimmer, you could possibly be exposed to eye infections like pink eye. Chlorine can also dry your eyes out and leave them red and itchy. Using eye drops can help to restore the tear film needed to protect them. If you wear contacts, make sure to remove them before you swim, but if you do not, make sure to take them out and rinse them immediately following your swim. Goggles are also a great way to protect your eyes if you’re going to be in the pool for some time.
If you have more questions about eye health and chlorine, contact the Royal Oak Eye Care team. We’re here to help protect your eyes!