Lenses for sea-ing
Question
My boyfriend wants to take me surfing in the summer but I wear contact lenses - is it safe to wear them in the sea?
Answer
According to The Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers, "you should not swim in your contact lenses. This is for two main reasons. Firstly, it is very easy for the lenses to be washed out of the eye by a small wave or if you place your head under the water. Secondly, the lenses, especially the soft variety, will absorb any chemicals or germs in the water. They will then stay in or on the lens for several hours, irritating the eyes and possibly causing infection."
This contact lens advice website says that you should only swim with your contacts in, if you are "wearing goggles with a firm seal". Obviously this would be even more the case if you are going surfing.
Ready made prescription goggles are available from opticians. Rather than searching for special contacts that you could wear whilst surfing, you might like to ask your optician for advice on prescription goggles.
The Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers also point out that "for those involved in active water sports such as water-polo or canoeing, a special type of rigid lens called a "Scleral lens" would be more suitable as these will not be washed out of the eye". Again your optician should be able to give you further advice.
If you would like to talk to someone further about this, the British Surfing Association may be able to offer further advice. They can be contacted via info@britsurf.co.uk, or on 01637 87647.
Updated: 06/06/2011
Question answered by bss
