Why is my vision blurry when I open eyes in chlorine water?

When your eyes are open in chlorinated water, the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye) swells due to the inflow of water. This swelling changes the cornea's curvature and causes blurred vision. Additionally, the chlorine in the water can irritate the conjunctiva (the clear membrane that covers the white of the eye), leading to further discomfort and visual disturbances.

Here are a few factors that can affect the severity of blurred vision in chlorinated water:

Chlorine concentration: Higher levels of chlorine in the water can cause more pronounced blurring of vision.

Duration of exposure: The longer your eyes are exposed to chlorinated water, the more severe the blurred vision may become.

Individual sensitivity: Some individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of chlorine than others, leading to varying degrees of blurred vision.

Underlying eye conditions: If you have any existing eye conditions, such as dry eye syndrome or corneal scarring, you may experience more significant blurred vision in chlorinated water.

To minimize blurred vision and eye irritation when swimming in chlorinated pools, it's recommended to:

Wear goggles: Wearing swimming goggles can create a barrier between your eyes and the chlorinated water, reducing direct exposure and its effects on vision.

Rinse your eyes with fresh water: After swimming, rinse your eyes thoroughly with fresh, non-chlorinated water to remove any residual chlorine and soothe irritated eyes.

Use artificial tears: If your eyes feel dry or irritated after swimming, you can use artificial tears to provide lubrication and relieve discomfort.

Consult an eye doctor: If you experience persistent blurred vision or any other eye problems related to swimming in chlorinated water, it's advisable to consult an eye doctor for further evaluation and treatment.