As per the swimming norms are concerned, you should never swim with eyes closed in a pool or anywhere else. Though the chance of facing any form of obstruction is almost negligible in a swimming pool, it is better to keep a note of the course and destination towards which you are moving. Now, the feeling of moving swiftly through the water is undoubtedly comfortable, but there is always a problem every swimmer faces; itchy eyes. This is one irritation that you can never avoid, even if you are wearing goggles. However, the rate of irritation may be less but reddening of eyes, which is also known as chemical conjunctivitis, is a common problem.
Reason for Irritation
Every swimming pool ought to change its water after a stipulated period and keep the stored water free from bacteria. Chlorine is poured at a specific pH level, between 7.2 and 7.8. This kills bacteria without being toxic to your body. However, this level is too low to break the fats and oils that we bring into the pool and they become the key ingredients that cause eye irritation. Hence, a bacteria free pool can even affect your eyes. There are also cases where your eyes could become irritated due to low chlorine levels. Swimming with your eyes open in a properly chlorinated pool can give an itchy feeling but there will be no physical damages.
Symptoms and Remedies
The common symptoms of infection are gritty sensation, burning feel or excessive watering along with reddening of eyes. Some swimmers have swollen eyes, blurred vision or light sensitivity issues. If you are swimming in the lake or ocean, it is better to put on your goggles otherwise dirt and other particles can scratch your cornea. Moreover, you need to make powerful movements to swim fast; so the protective goggles can save you from any accidental eye injury under water. Usually, the irritation lasts for more than a few hours after swimming. But if it still continues, visit an eye specialist.
However, you can even apply home remedies to remove the disturbing sensation like flushing eyes thoroughly with warm water or saline solution. This provides a relieved sensation to eyes. In case there is any inflammation, cold compress works well. If you are still having problems, visit an eye specialist to get a lubricating solution that can ease the itching and burning feeling. If you wear contact lenses, try to discontinue the use, until you have recovered from the irritation or eye inflammation state.
Benefits of Wearing Goggles
If you think that wearing your contact lenses while swimming can protect your eye, you would be wrong. The chance of losing them is easy and finding them in the pool is nearly impossible. Moreover, it is easier for microorganisms to get stuck onto the lens and thereby increasing the possibility of infection. Goggles are the best equipment to overcome all these issues concerning eyes. These come in various sizes and colors, protecting your eyes from the effects of chlorine, salt water, sand and debris and even sunlight.
Selecting the right goggle depends on your needs. If your goal is to gain speed while you swim, smaller and narrow goggles are perfect to reduce drag. If you want to swim in a lake or ocean, goggles with larger lenses help to see better underwater.
In case you are swimming outdoors in the daytime, use gray or blue tinted goggles. It can protect your eyes from glare and UV rays. For bright weather, use mirrored or metallic lenses and if you are a night swimmers, you need to go for clear lenses. Whatever goggles you choose, make sure it fits perfectly without causing any pain to the face or head.
Eyes are precious. Hence, take all the care possible to keep them free from any irritation. Shower properly, immediately after swimming because chlorine can cause health issues as well as skin problems. No matter how popular the swim school is at Cypress, do not compromise with your eyes; take necessary precautions to keep them safe from chlorinated water of the pool.