In fact, for most individuals who use an ocular prosthesis, swimming or any related activities prove to be a source of many questions. They may ask themselves whether it is appropriate or whether the prosthesis may come off while swimming. This blog is set out to answer these questions and to offer some tips on swimming with ocular prostheses. By the end of the video, you will understand what measures to observe and how to swim and play in water safely.
Understanding the Basics of an Ocular Prosthesis
An ocular prosthesis, also referred to as an artificial eye, is a specially made appliance which is fitted to replace an absent or damaged eye. It does not treat blindness but aids in attaining a normal look, enhances self-esteem and hence the quality of life. Using safe material like acrylic it is built to fit within the eye socket while offering protection. The prosthesis normally rests directly on the orbital implant thus is less likely to move during normal activities including exercise.
An ocular prosthesis is made to perfectly fit the orbit of the individual who will be wearing it. It should not move from its proper position when the wearer is engaging in minor movements such as walking, or even mild exercising, and just needs a little cleaning and adjustment to keep it in perfect condition.
For more information about ocular prosthesis or if you are interested in an ocular prosthesis, please navigate to ocular prosthesis page for more information.
Is Swimming Safe with an Ocular Prosthesis?
In general, swimming with an ocular prosthesis is not dangerous, but there are a few things to bear in mind. Swimming is possible without any problems for many individuals, but it is crucial to know about the dangers and how to avoid them. One of the major issues that were raised is whether the prosthesis will move or even come off. But this is not likely to occur in calm water if the artificial limb has been fitted correctly.
Other factors include interaction with bacteria and chemicals such as chlorine used in swimming pools or salt in seas. Such substances may from time to time cause irritation of the eye socket due to the presence of debris around the prosthesis. These risks can however be minimized by avoiding contact of water with the eyes through putting on swimming goggles. It is also advised to wash the eye socket and the prosthesis with water after swimming, to get rid of chemicals or bacteria that may have come into contact with the eye.
It is always advisable to seek advice from your eye care specialist in case of a particular issue. A brief visit or phone conversation will let you know if further steps are required due to your eyes’ condition.
Precautions for Swimming with an Ocular Prosthesis
Taking a few simple precautions can make swimming with an ocular prosthesis a comfortable and safe experience:
- Use Swimming Goggles: Swimming is one of the ways that can easily harm your eye prosthesis, and therefore, wearing goggles is one of the simplest ways of protecting your eye prosthesis. Goggles cover the eyes and form a barrier around them, thus preventing water from getting in contact with them and causing infections as well as minimizing irritation from chlorine or salt.
- Clean Your Prosthesis Before and After Swimming: You should always wash your prosthesis with low pressure before and after swimming. Rinse it with a mild salt water solution or, if advised otherwise by your eye practitioner. This minimizes chances of getting infected or irritated by pool chemicals, salt water or even the water from a lake.
- Limit Exposure in Rough Waters: If you intend to swim in the ocean or any other water source that has a strong current, you should know that pressure might cause the prosthesis to become loose. It is also important to note that smooth waters mean less pressure on the prosthesis.
- Avoid Diving or High-Impact Water Sports: Water sports such as diving, water skiing or jet skiing can cause the prosthesis to be detached. If you are intending to participate in these activities, you should seek advice from your eye care professional.
What to Do if the Prosthesis Shifts or Comes Out?
While it is exceedingly rare, an ocular prosthesis may move or even fall out during swimming. Here’s what to do if this happens:
- Stay Calm: It is embarrassing when the prosthesis slips off in the water, but do not panic as this will make it harder to get it back. It is usually not difficult to locate if one is in a pool particularly if there is help.
- Have a Backup Plan: If you feel that your prosthesis may come out then it may be advisable to carry a small case with you. If needed, you can take it off for a while and put it in a place where it won’t get wet before putting it back on after your swim.
- Check for Any Irritation: If the prosthesis moves or it has been removed, it is advisable to rinse both the prosthesis and the eye socket with a clean saline solution to prevent skin rash.
- Seek Professional Help if Needed: In case you feel any pain or have problems while putting the prosthetic eye back, you should consult your eye doctor.
Additional Tips for Water Activities with an Ocular Prosthesis
- Wear an Eye Patch if Needed:For those who wish to engage in activities such as diving or snorkeling an eye patch offers further assurance as well as shield the prosthesis from water pressure.
- Keep Your Prosthesis Case Nearby: It is good practice to always have a specific case for your prosthesis. This way, you can safely put it away in your pocket, in case you decide to take it off before swimming or if it comes off by surprise.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Before and after swimming it is very important that the prosthesis is cleaned. As for rinsing it, the best advice is to use saline solution, especially if the product has been in contact with water from lakes, pools or the sea.
- Consult with Your Eye Specialist: If you have any special concerns, it is best to first seek advice from your eye care professional before engaging in any water activities. They can guide on how to follow the best practices and can also redesign them if at all they require to do so.
It is therefore safe to swim with an ocular prosthesis provided some precautions are taken. From wearing protective goggles to ensure it is clean, these measures make it possible for one to engage in water activities without the need to worry about the prosthesis. However, this may vary from one person to another and therefore it is always safe to talk to an eye doctor before going swimming.
For further information or if you wish to know more about living with an ocular prosthesis, please contact The Eye Foundation. Book your appointment so we can discuss your requirements and provide guidance on swimming and other activities with your prosthesis.
If done right, you will be able to continue living a full and active life.
