Written by: Registered Optometrist Chen Minqi
In the scorching summer, many parents will take their children to swim, but it turns out that many children with myopia have sensitive eyes. Ophthalmologist and optometrist Manki brings you all-round swimming advice this time. Parents should also remember to protect their children’s eyes when taking their children to swim during the summer vacation.
1. Choose the right swimming goggles:
In order for children to properly protect their eyes when playing in the pool, it is necessary to choose a pair of swimming goggles with UV protection. This prevents harmful chemicals from entering the eyes and protects the eyes from sun damage. At the same time, parents should help children adjust the goggles to ensure they are sealed.
2. Wear sunglasses by the pool:
Eyes are prone to sunburn in highly reflective environments near swimming pools or lake water, so protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by having your little ones wear sunglasses while lounging by the pool.
3. Cleanse chemicals from sensitive eyes:
Some children are particularly sensitive to the chlorine and salt water solutions used to keep pools clean. If children often complain of eye irritation after swimming, parents can help children rinse their eyes with normal saline immediately after leaving the pool.
4. Avoid swimming with contact lenses:
Children should avoid swimming with contact lenses, as bacteria in the pool may attach to the lenses and cause irritation or infection. Also, contact lenses are often lost while diving or swimming underwater with your eyes open.
5. Have non-medicated artificial tears at the ready:
Parents can prepare non-medicated artificial tears to lubricate children’s eyes after a long day at the pool.
6. Consider using orthokeratology lenses (Ortho-K):
Children with myopia may consider using Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) as a way to improve vision. Orthokeratology lenses are specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, usually worn at night, to correct nearsightedness by changing the curvature of the cornea. When the orthokeratology lenses are removed in the morning, vision can temporarily improve and clear vision usually remains throughout the day. For children who swim, using orthokeratology lenses has the following advantages:
• Children do not need to wear glasses or contact lenses during daytime swimming, reducing the risk of eye irritation and infection
• Glasses or contact lenses may keep slipping while playing in the water, causing discomfort. Wearing Ortho-K instead reduces eye and eye contact lens friction.
• Some studies have shown that Ortho-K can slow down the progression of myopia. For myopic children, this will help protect their eyesight.
It is very important for little ones to maintain good vision and eye health while swimming. Following the recommendations above, choosing the right swimming goggles, and taking proper eye protection can ensure your little ones have the most fun while out in the water while protecting their eyes from injury. If parents have any concerns about their child’s vision or eye health, please consult an optometrist for professional advice and proper care.
