Swimming? Why Your Eyes Turn Red

Swim season’s here—but lots of people end up with red, irritated eyes after a dip. Itching or goopy discharge? Chances are it’s conjunctivitis.

Likely Conjunctivitis

Even clean pools (with proper chemicals) can get crowded, and water quality can slip. Two main types:

Bacterial (pink eye): Hits fast. Eyes turn red, with thick yellow/green gunk—sometimes so much your eyes stick shut in the morning. Super contagious.

Do this: Keep towels/washcloths separate from family. Use disposables if needed. Don’t rub—you’ll spread it. It often heals on its own, but antibiotic drops ease discomfort. Artificial tears help too.

Allergic: Pool chemicals or other swimmers’ gunk can trigger allergies. Eyes get red, but the big issue is itching. Kids (especially with eczema or allergies) might rub, risking infection.

Do this: Use anti-allergy drops to stop itching.

How to Avoid It

· Wear well-fitting goggles—keep water out.

· Rinse eyes after swimming with saline or artificial tears (found at pharmacies).

· Pick less crowded pools—cleaner water.

For Nearsighted Swimmers

Contacts in the pool aren’t great, but you need to see!

· Get prescription goggles—they’re not perfect, but better than blurry.

· If you must wear contacts: Use daily disposables, wear goggles over them, then toss contacts after. Rinse eyes with saline.

Swim safe, and keep those eyes happy!