Can You Go Scuba Diving with Contacts?
Scuba diving is a great way to explore the underwater world, but if you wear contact lenses, you may be wondering if you can still enjoy this activity. The good news is that you can go scuba diving with contacts, but there are a few things you need to know in order to do so safely.
Types of Contact Lenses
There are two main types of contact lenses: soft contact lenses and hard contact lenses. Soft contact lenses are made of a thin, flexible material that conforms to the shape of your eye. Hard contact lenses are made of a rigid material that does not conform to the shape of your eye.
For scuba diving, soft contact lenses are the better choice. They are more comfortable to wear and they are less likely to fall out. However, if you have astigmatism, you may need to wear hard contact lenses.
Wearing Contact Lenses While Scuba Diving
When you wear contact lenses while scuba diving, it is important to take a few precautions to protect your eyes and your lenses.
Use contact lenses that are designed for scuba diving. There are a number of contact lenses on the market that are specifically designed for scuba diving. These lenses are made of a material that is less likely to absorb water and fog up.
Wear a mask that fits snugly. A mask that fits snugly will help to keep water out of your eyes and protect your lenses.
Use artificial tears. Artificial tears can help to keep your lenses moist and comfortable.
Take breaks during your dive. If you wear contact lenses for long periods of time, you may need to take breaks to give your eyes a rest.
Risks of Scuba Diving with Contacts
There are a few risks associated with scuba diving with contacts. These risks include:
Eye irritation. Contact lenses can irritate your eyes, especially if you wear them for long periods of time.
Corneal abrasions. Corneal abrasions are scratches on the surface of your eye. They can be caused by contact lenses, especially if they are not fitted properly.
Infection. Contact lenses can increase your risk of infection, especially if they are not cleaned properly.
If you experience any eye irritation or discomfort while scuba diving with contacts, remove your lenses and seek medical attention.
Alternatives to Contact Lenses for Scuba Diving
If you are not comfortable wearing contact lenses while scuba diving, there are a few alternatives available. These alternatives include:
Scuba diving goggles. Scuba diving goggles are designed to fit over your eyes and provide a clear view of the underwater world. They are a good option for people who do not wear contact lenses or who have difficulty wearing them while scuba diving.
Prescription dive masks. Prescription dive masks are custom-made to fit your prescription. They are a good option for people who wear eyeglasses or contact lenses and want to see clearly while scuba diving.
Laser eye surgery. Laser eye surgery can correct vision problems, such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. This can eliminate the need for contact lenses or eyeglasses for scuba diving.
If you are considering scuba diving with contacts, be sure to talk to your eye doctor first. Your eye doctor can help you choose the best option for your needs and can provide you with instructions on how to safely wear contact lenses while scuba diving.