Swimming pool eye infections in kids: Risks, symptoms & prevention tips for parents

With summers round the corner , swimming is one of the activities children love to indulge in to escape heat . However parents need to be careful with their children’s eye health when it comes to swimming pools . Not only the chlorine in the pool water is harmful to the eyes but there are certain organisms in the pool which can cause mild to severe infections of the eye . So here are some of the risks involved: 1. A badly maintained swimming pool can be full of organisms as well as contaminants which can cause a ‘ pink eye ‘. Children tend to keep their eyes open while swimming under water and hence are more prone . 2. ⁠Sharing of towels , goggles or other personal items can lead to spread of eye infections.3. ⁠Chlorine which is used as pool water disinfectant can cause disruption of tear film of eyes which can further lead to eyes being more susceptible to infection. So what are the symptoms of pink eye?1. The white portion of the eye may appear red hence the term ‘pink eye’.2. Severe irritation of eyes as if there is something stuck inside eyes .Burning or gritty sensation in eyes .3. ⁠There could be watery or yellowish whitish discharge from eyes .4.Vision maybe affected leading to blurriness .5. ⁠Some patients may experience swelling of eyelids . In an event of any of the above symptoms parents should immediately consult an ophthalmologist.Here are some preventive measures of eye infections while swimming 1. Always wear eye goggles while swimming especially under water .2. Make sure the pool is a well maintained one .3. ⁠Avoid sharing towels , goggles or any other personal items. 4. ⁠If you’re experiencing any eye infections avoid using the pool as it can easily transfer to others .5. ⁠Older children should avoid wearing contact lenses while swimming . Keeping all the above points in mind make sure you visit an ophthalmologist if symptoms persist for more than 48 hours .Dr. Avisha Gavai, Cataract Specialist, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Virar