Understanding Acanthamoeba Keratitis: Risks and Prevention for Contact Lens Wearers
#acanthamoeba_keratitis #contact_lenses #eye_infection #prevention
A blinding parasitic eye disease and contact lenses
Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare, parasitic eye infection that can permanently damage the cornea and steal vision when diagnosis or treatment is delayed. Contact lens wearers face the highest risk because the microscopic organism thrives in tap water, pools, hot tubs, soil and even homemade lens solutions. When contaminated water meets tiny lens-related scratches on the eye, the amoeba can invade, causing intense pain, redness, light sensitivity and blurred vision that may be mistaken for routine conjunctivitis.
How to avoid Acanthamoeba keratitis
Prevention starts with meticulous lens hygiene: always wash and dry hands before handling lenses, rub and rinse lenses with fresh disinfecting solution, and replace storage cases frequently. Never rinse lenses or cases with tap water, wear lenses while swimming or showering, or reuse old solution. Daily disposable lenses reduce risk for many people. Anyone noticing persistent discomfort, halos or worsening redness should remove lenses immediately and seek urgent eye care.
