Swimming With Keratoconus

Can you still swim if you have keratoconus (KC)? Absolutely, as long as you take certain safety precautions! Many individuals with KC wear contact lenses. Swimming with contact lenses alone can put you at risk of serious issues such as infection, irritation, and corneal ulcers because most bodies of water (including swimming pools) contain bacteria and a microorganism called acanthamoeba that can contaminate the eyes and lenses. Contact lenses are also highly likely to pop out from the eyes while swimming unprotected. To avoid these issues, wear waterproof swimming goggles, such as Aquazone Premium Swimming Goggles or Aqua Sphere Kayenne Swim Goggles, anytime you swim! Be sure that any swimming goggles you wear are leak-proof, anti-fog, and UVA and UVB protected. According to experts, “Swimming goggles can protect the eyes against irritation, bacterial contamination, and infection. They also significantly reduce the risk of losing contact lenses in the water.” If swimming with goggles on still causes you irritation, be sure to talk to your doctor.