Why do my eyes get red in the swimming pool?
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Why do my eyes get red in the swimming pool?
When we go swimming and our eyes turn red, it’s because swimmers have peed in the water. “The nitrogen in the urine combines with the chlorine and it forms what’s known as chloramine and it’s actually chloramine that causes the red eyes,” Michele Hlavsa, chief of the CDC’s healthy swimming program told TODAY in 2015.
Does chlorine in water cause red eyes?
Chlorinated water in pools But because it’s a chemical, it can cause a reaction on the eye’s surface. “Chlorine can make your eyes a little red, teary and sensitive to light for a couple of hours after you are in a pool or playing at a water park,” says Dr. Gans.
How do you stop eye irritation from chlorine?
Usually, simply rinsing the eyes with cool water will remove irritants and help the problem to subside. You can also use a saline solution or cool compress. If you find this is a frequent problem, try having your kids wear goggles when swimming to prevent irritation before it starts.
Can chlorine cause pink eye?
The most common type of eye infection resulting from swimming in contaminated water is called conjunctivitis, commonly called “pink eye.” When this occurs, Greiner says, the eyes become reddish and fluid is discharged.
How do you remove chlorine from eyes?
Wash your eyes after swimming in order to remove chlorine and other chemicals from your eyelashes and eyelids. Make sure to close your eyes as you splash fresh water on them. If you experience irritated or burning eyes after swimming, flush your eyes with eye wash or tap water for approximately 15 minutes.
How do you treat chlorine in the eyes?
If, after a long day at the pool, your once clear view of paradise becomes foggy and blurry, flush your eyes with a cool eye rinse or try saline eye drops for quick relief. A good tip is to add them to your list of must-haves for your beach bag this season!
Do swimming pools cause conjunctivitis?
What eyedrops are best for chlorine?
Systane Preservative-Free and Refresh Plus are two brands you might be familiar with and that we recommend.