How to prevent sore, red eyes after swimming lessons
02/09/2023 | Written by Nikos Vasilellis in Water Safety
Swimming and playing in a pool is an Australian pastime, and one of the best ways to exercise while enjoying the warm weather. However, it is common for swimmers to experience sore, red eyes after time in the pool. Red eyes are usually due to irritation caused by the chlorine and chemicals used to keep the water clean. The good news is that the irritation is usually short-lived and not dangerous, but that does not make it any more comfortable.
Here is how you can prevent red, sore eyes in the first place, and treat it when it does occur.
How to prevent red eyes from swimming lessons
Most indoor and outdoor swimming pools have chemicals in the water, such as chlorine, to help prevent the growth of bacteria. While this ensures the water is clean, it can result in irritation if that water comes into contact with your eyes.
That is why the best way to prevent red eyes from occurring during swimming lessons is to wear well-fitted goggles. Goggles will help to keep water out of your eyes so they do not get irritated.
If the goggles do not fit well anymore, it might be time to invest in a new pair that keeps the water out.
One of the many reasons to choose a mobile swim school for swimming lessons is that you will be learning to swim in your own private pool at home. Domestic pools do not need as much chlorine to keep them clean, since there are fewer people using them. For example, domestic pools typically have chlorine levels of 0.5-3ppm, whereas public pools have chlorine levels of 3-5ppm.
As a result, swim lessons at home should mean you will not have as many problems with red eye irritation as you would at a public pool. Not to mention, it is much harder to forget to bring your goggles when you are at home.
How to treat red eyes from swimming lessons
If you do encounter red eyes and irritation, you can try saline eye drops or a quick cool eye rinse. These can help to flush out the irritants and soothe your sore eyes.
Most cases of red eyes should clear up within a couple of hours after swimming, especially with the help of eye drops. Be sure to add eye drops to your swim bag for use after your lesson.
However, if your eyes are still red and irritated 24 hours after your swimming session, consider speaking to your doctor. This could be a symptom of an infection and may require treatment.
Private swimming lessons at home
Learn to swim in the comfort and privacy of your own home with Nereids Aquatic Coaching. Our friendly, professional swim coaches will come to your house for your lessons, where you can benefit from one-on-one training to learn to swim or improve your skills and confidence in the water.
Contact us today to learn more.
