Whether you're jetting off on holiday or going down to the local swimming pool, you'll always appreciate a nice dip in the water during a warm summer's day. However, you need to make sure your eyes are protected, and that means wearing swimming goggles.  

Here are just five eye-related problems they can prevent.

1. Chlorine Irritation

Most of us have experienced the discomfort of getting into a pool that has too much chlorine in. Your eyes start to get red and your skin starts to itch. Unfortunately, swimming pools often have a little too much chlorine in them because they need to be kept clean. This can result in severe eye irritation that can be avoided by wearing swimming goggles.

2. Dry Eye

Some people suffer from dry eyes, and, oddly enough, getting into a big pool of water can make them even dryer. This is because of the chemicals that are used to treat the water. They are very tough on the tear film that coats the surface of your eyes. It's this tear film that keeps them smooth, clear, and, most importantly, moist. If pool chemicals wash that film away, you're far more likely to suffer from dry eyes.

3. Infection

Even though it isn't particularly pleasant to think about it, a pool used by lots of people is going to harbour plenty of bacteria. Just think of the dead skin, hair, and sweat that comes off people's bodies, not to mention possible urine and saliva. Then you've got bugs and debris, both of which can harbour bacteria. This shouldn't put you off swimming, but it should prompt you to wear swimming goggles. Any bacteria vastly increases the likelihood of developing an eye infection.

4. Debris Irritation

Even if the debris in a pool doesn't introduce any bacteria, it can still harm your eyes. Why? Because small amounts of grit or other seemly insignificant sediment will get circulated around the pool as people swim and play. If any of that gets in your eyes, it can cause intense irritation.

5. UV Damage

Finally, you might have noticed that plenty of swimming goggles come with slightly tinted lenses. This provides a measure of UV protection. If you're taking a dip, you probably don't want to wear your sunglasses. Unfortunately, the sun will still do damage, especially with all the water reflecting light up into your eyes. Long-term damage to the cornea can result, so make sure you protect yourself by wearing goggles.

Contact an optometrist for more eye protection tips or if you're experiencing irritation after a swim.