When 23-year-old Brooklyn McCasland from the United States went swimming with friends in Alabama, she had no idea it would lead to a life-altering infection. McCasland was a regular contact lens wearer, as she developed a rare eye infection called Acanthamoeba Keratitis (AK) after she swam with her lenses still in.
Our expert Dr Abha Gahlot, Senior Consultant, Department Of Ophthalmology - Sharda Hospital explained that the infection was caused by a microscopic amoeba, which severely damaged her cornea and ultimately led to the loss of vision in one eye.
What Is Acanthamoeba Keratitis?
AK is a rare but serious infection that primarily affects contact lens wearers, though anyone can be at risk if exposed. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the parasite is most commonly found in bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and (especially) swimming pools, but it can also be present in tap water, hot tubs, and even soil. According to the report, while only around 1,500 cases are reported annually in the U.S., contact lens wearers make up nearly 90% of them.
Hence, understanding the dangers of swimming or showering with contact lenses is crucial for anyone who relies on them for vision correction. Here is what our expert shared with us.
Also Read: Instagram Leads or Misleads: Can Coconut Actually Help with Weight Loss? Expert Debunks Myth
How Swimming with Contact Lenses Increases Risk
Contact lenses create an ideal environment for Acanthamoeba to thrive, particularly when exposed to water. Lenses can trap the organism between the eye’s surface and the lens itself, giving it direct access to the cornea and increasing the risk of infection. The same report from Cleveland Clinic highlights that common habits like wearing contacts while swimming, showering, or even handling lenses with unwashed hands can raise the likelihood of exposure to harmful organisms.
In McCasland's case, swimming in a natural water source with her contacts put her at high risk. Bodies of water, particularly lakes and rivers, often contain microorganisms that can be dangerous when in contact with the eyes. Unfortunately, her situation illustrates how quickly an infection like AK can escalate from minor symptoms to serious damage.
Preventing Acanthamoeba Keratitis: Safety Tips for Contact Lens Users
To avoid infections like AK, it’s essential for contact lens wearers to follow best practices for lens hygiene. Here are some recommendations:
- Remove contact lenses before swimming or showering
- Practice proper cleaning and storage of contact lenses
- Limit wear time and follow replacement schedules
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying/removing lenses
Also Read: FDA Issues New Warning For Popular Weight Loss Drugs—Here's What You Need To Know
When to Seek Medical Help?
If you experience symptoms like eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or light sensitivity after contact with water, seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment of AK are critical for preserving vision, as the infection can worsen if left untreated.
Bottomline
McCasland's story is a reminder of the risks that come with improper contact lens care and the importance of protecting eye health. Make sure to take the above mentioned preventive steps to reduce the risk of infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis.