Using contact lenses for sports that don't involve exposure to water is an excellent option given that you can enjoy better freedom of movement and improved peripheral vision. However, water sports, with your lenses directly exposed, as we've said, are simply a no-go. Your lenses absorb water extremely quickly, and if left in for a long time, while getting wet, will trap all sorts of viruses, germs and bacteria against your eye.

Plus, freshwater or saltwater sources like the sea, lakes and rivers, can be more dangerous than in a pool because natural bodies of water are usually teeming with bacteria that's not killed off by pool chemicals. Acanthamoeba, one of the most dangerous organisms found in these sources, can result in a rare but serious eye infection, Acanthamoeba keratitis. If left untreated, this infection may lead to inflammation of the cornea, resulting in vision loss down the line.

Unfortunately, chemicals like chlorine, won't kill all pathogens, and as soft lenses are exceptionally porous and absorbent, the bacteria and the chlorine in pool water can still easily reach and harm your eyes during a dip. Additionally, wet contact lenses will change their shape dramatically, making them uncomfortable to wear, and distorting or blurring your sight.

Swimming with your contact lenses can increase your risk of several eye issues, including:

• Corneal ulcers

• Corneal abrasions or scratches

• Eye inflammation from the lens sticking to your eye

• Eye infections

• Eye conditions

• Dry eye syndrome and dry eyes, particularly from saltwater or chlorinated water

FREE CONTACT LENSES

FREE CONTACT LENSES

FREE CONTACT LENSES

FREE CONTACT LENSES

Can I swim with contact lenses?