No, you should not shower with contact lenses in.
Showering with contact lenses can increase your risk of eye infections. Water, even tap water, contains microorganisms that can get trapped between your contact lens and your eye. These microorganisms, such as bacteria and Acanthamoeba, can lead to serious infections, including:
- Keratitis: An inflammation of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye.
- Acanthamoeba keratitis: A rare but severe infection that can cause permanent vision loss.
Risks Associated with Showering with Contacts:
- Microorganism Exposure: Water can harbor harmful bacteria and amoebas.
- Lens Contamination: Contact lenses can absorb chemicals and minerals from the water, irritating the eye.
- Lens Warping: Water can cause the lenses to change shape, leading to discomfort and blurry vision.
- Increased Risk of Infection: Trapped water promotes bacterial growth and infections.
What to Do if You Accidentally Shower with Contacts:
- Remove the Lenses Immediately: As soon as possible, take out your contact lenses.
- Clean and Disinfect: Clean, rinse, and disinfect the lenses thoroughly with a multipurpose solution recommended by your eye doctor before reinserting them, unless you wear daily disposables. If you wear daily disposable lenses, discard them and use a fresh pair.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for signs of eye infection, such as redness, pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, or excessive tearing.
- Consult an Eye Doctor: If you experience any of these symptoms, consult an eye doctor immediately.
Alternative Solutions:
- Remove Lenses Before Showering: The simplest solution is to always remove your lenses before showering.
- Wear Glasses: If you need vision correction while showering, consider wearing glasses instead.
In summary, while the convenience of showering with contacts might be tempting, the potential risks to your eye health outweigh the benefits. Taking a few moments to remove your lenses before showering can help you avoid serious eye infections and maintain good eye health.
