Attention to Eyes in Pools and Seas!

With the increased use of sea and pools during the summer months, the number of cases of conjunctivitis, which can be allergic or due to infection, has risen significantly. 

 

Conjunctivitis is an eye disease that occurs due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. It is a very common condition that disrupts life quality and can lead to temporary vision loss.

Conjunctivitis can arise from allergies and environmental factors, but it most frequently occurs during the summer due to viral and bacterial infections from the sea and pools. Additionally, high levels of chlorine in pools can cause irritation, and the effects of salty seawater can result in burning and redness in the eyes.

Situations such as many people using the sea and pools simultaneously or insufficient cleaning of pools can set the stage for conjunctivitis.

It is advisable to use goggles or swimming masks in the sea and pool. Removing makeup before swimming can help prevent potential allergies and infections. Swimming with contact lenses should be avoided but if necessary, disposable lenses should be used and discarded afterward. Proper care should be taken to avoid the contact of contact lenses with water as it can cause serious visual issues. Sunglasses should be used throughout the day, even in shaded areas. It is important to avoid inadequately cleaned pools and to wash the face and eyes thoroughly with water after swimming. The dryness in the eyes caused by the salt in the sea and chemicals in pools can be alleviated by using artificial tears in people with eye dryness. Personal hygiene should be maintained before entering the pool and sea to prevent health risks to others, and those with infections should avoid these waters for the same reason.

 

Attention to Eyes in Pools and Seas

Pools and seas preferred for cooling off and having fun during the summer months may pose some hygiene risks. Especially eye health can face various infections in these environments. Exposure to chlorine, prolonged exposure to sunlight, contact with salty water or microorganisms can cause irritation and various discomforts in the eyes. Hence, extra caution should be given to eye health during summer. Pool water is usually disinfected with chemicals which can cause dryness on the surface of the eye, disturb the tear balance, and sensitise the conjunctival tissue. Swimming in pools without protective goggles can lead to symptoms such as burning, stinging, and redness in the eyes. Similarly, the salt and sand in seawater can also irritate the surface of the eye, potentially inviting infections in some cases.

What is Conjunctivitis? How Does it Occur in Pools?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is the inflammation of the conjunctival layer covering the white of the eye and the inner surfaces of the eyelids. The most basic answer to what conjunctivitis means is this. It is most commonly caused by infections, allergies, and exposure to irritants. Viral or bacterial conjunctivitis cases are more frequently observed in individuals swimming in pools during summer. Sharing towels, goggles, and surface contact in pools can spread conjunctivitis. This disease is quite contagious. Although the question "Is conjunctivitis contagious?" is frequently asked, the answer is yes, especially infection-induced types can spread rapidly. Symptoms include redness in the eye, watering, stinging sensation, discharge, and sensitivity to light. In some cases, it may start in one eye and quickly spread to the other. Allergic conjunctivitis may develop after exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust, and seawater. In this case, itching, watering, and redness in the eyes are prominent. The allergic type is not contagious but can cause bothersome symptoms affecting quality of life.

How is Conjunctivitis Treated?

Conjunctivitis treatment varies depending on its cause. Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are prescribed in cases of bacterial conjunctivitis. In viral conjunctivitis, specific treatment may not be needed, and practices that alleviate symptoms are usually chosen. It is crucial to maintain eye hygiene, avoid rubbing the eyes, and prevent contact with contaminated objects during the treatment process. In treating allergic conjunctivitis, the first step is to avoid allergens. Additionally, antihistamine eye drops, cold compresses, and artificial tears can be used. Since conjunctivitis is an eye inflammation, regular medical follow-up is recommended during treatment. If untreated, it can lead to more serious eye infections or visual impairments. Adhering to hygiene rules is as important as an early diagnosis in treating conjunctivitis. During summer, any redness, stinging, or watering in the eyes occurring after using the pool or sea should be seriously considered, and an eye health professional should be consulted.

Ways to Protect Eyes

There are some simple yet effective precautions to protect eye health in pools or seas. Firstly, using protective swimming goggles during swimming can shield the eyes from chemicals and microorganisms in the water. It is important that the goggles fit properly and do not allow any water to enter. Additionally, rinsing the eyes with plenty of water after swimming aids in removing residual chlorine or salt. Individuals using contact lenses should remove them prior to entering the pool or sea or opt for special swimming lenses to mitigate infection risk. Personal towels and items should not be shared with others. If any discomfort is felt in the eyes, it is advisable to avoid using drops or medication independently and consult an eye doctor. It should be remembered that using medication without proper guidance during conjunctivitis treatment can worsen the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctival layer covering the white of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. The most common causes are infections, allergies, and irritants. It presents with redness, stinging, tearing, and burning sensation in the eyes. Early treatment is important to reduce contagion risk and prevent complications. It is usually quickly controlled with doctor-recommended drops.

What Does Conjunctivitis Mean?

Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the membrane covering the eye surface. It manifests with symptoms such as redness, stinging, watering, and itching in the eyes. Eyelids may stick together in the morning due to discharge. Vision is generally not affected but blurriness can occur in advanced cases. An eye examination is enough for diagnosis.

What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis is a non-contagious type that occurs due to exposure to allergens like pollen, dust, pet dander, and is not contagious. It is mainly characterized by itching and watering. It usually occurs seasonally and can be accompanied by other allergic symptoms like nasal discharge. Artificial tears and antihistamine drops alleviate symptoms. Avoiding contact with allergens is the most effective treatment.

Is Conjunctivitis Contagious?

Viral and bacterial types of conjunctivitis are highly contagious. It can spread particularly through hand-eye contact and shared items. Rubbing eyes or using a shared towel increases risk of contagion. Hence, one should stay away from infected people and adhere to hygiene rules. The allergic type is not contagious but its symptoms can be bothersome.

Is Conjunctivitis an Eye Infection?

Yes, conjunctivitis is classified as an eye infection. This infection can be due to viruses, bacteria, or allergies and can lead to serious problems if untreated. As the infection is in the conjunctival layer, it is often noted by a distinguishable redness in the white part of the eye. Contagious forms can rapidly spread in school and work environments. Maintaining hygiene and early treatment are crucial for protecting eye health.

How Long Does Conjunctivitis Treatment Last?

The treatment duration generally depends on the cause of conjunctivitis. Bacterial conjunctivitis may resolve within a few days, while viral infections can last up to a week. Allergic conjunctivitis may recur as long as contact with the allergen persists. Early treatment accelerates recovery. Using drops without doctor’s advice is not recommended.

Can Conjunctivitis Be Caught from a Pool?

Yes, particularly in pools where chlorine levels are low or hygiene rules are not followed, bacterial and viral conjunctivitis can spread. The risk is higher in individuals without goggles. Shared items like sunbeds, towels can also be sources of infection. It's important to rinse eyes with clean water after leaving the pool. If symptoms occur, consult an eye doctor immediately.

Can a Person with Conjunctivitis Wear Lenses?

No, using lenses during conjunctivitis is not recommended. The inflammation in the eye can irritate the lens and spread the infection. Lenses create an environment that can harbor germs. Glasses should be used during the treatment period and new lenses should be used after recovery.

How is Conjunctivitis Recognized?

Complaints such as redness, itching, stinging, discharge, and watering in the eye suggest conjunctivitis. Difficulty in opening eyelids in the morning due to discharge can occur. Sensitivity to light and burning sensation are also common. Diagnosis is clarified through an examination by an eye doctor. Early recognition facilitates quick recovery.

Does Conjunctivitis Affect Only One Eye?

Although it usually starts in one eye, it can spread to the other eye shortly. This is more common in contagious types. The risk of spreading increases if hand hygiene is not maintained. Separate towels should be used, and rubbing the eyes should be avoided. Allergic conjunctivitis often affects both eyes.