Swimming and Eye Health: Keeping Your Vision Clear in Chlorinated Pools
Whether your family is cooling off at a local Toronto community pool, taking swim lessons, or heading to a backyard oasis, swimming is a summer favourite. But while it’s great for fitness and fun, it can pose hidden risks to eye health, especially for children. The culprit? Chlorine and other pool chemicals.
How Chlorinated Pools Affect the Eyes
Chlorine is essential for keeping pools clean by killing harmful bacteria. But it doesn’t come without side effects. Chlorine and its by-products strip the eye’s natural tear film—our built-in protection against irritants. This can lead to red, itchy, and dry eyes, commonly known as swimmer’s eye.
Children are particularly vulnerable. Their eyes are still developing and often more sensitive to chemical exposure. Plus, they tend to spend longer periods underwater and are less likely to avoid rubbing their eyes after swimming, increasing the risk of infection.
Smart Swimming Habits for Healthy Eyes
Keeping your eyes healthy while enjoying Toronto’s many swimming spots—like Monarch Park Pool or your neighborhood swim club—comes down to a few simple precautions:
Wear well-fitted swim goggles: Goggles create a protective seal that keeps out chlorinated water. For kids, choose soft silicone frames with adjustable straps for comfort and security.
Rinse with fresh water after swimming: Encourage everyone to rinse their face and eyes with clean water after pool time. This helps wash away residual chlorine and restore the tear film.
Use lubricating eye drops: Artificial tears (not redness-reducing drops) can soothe dryness post-swim, especially if you're in the pool frequently.
Take swim breaks: Give eyes a rest during long swim sessions. Encourage regular breaks, especially for younger swimmers.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild irritation is common and usually short-lived, some symptoms warrant a trip to the optometrist:
Persistent redness or discomfort
Blurred vision after swimming
Yellow or green eye discharge (a possible sign of infection)
Sensitivity to light
If your child experiences any of these, consult your eye care provider right away.
Make Eye Care Part of Pool Safety
In Toronto, summer is short but packed with aquatic activities. Just like sunscreen and floaties, eye protection should be part of your poolside essentials. Instilling healthy habits now helps ensure clear, comfortable vision throughout the season—and beyond.