Corneal Infections and Contact Lenses

"Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare but very painful and potentially blinding infection of the cornea, the transparent covering at the front of the eye. The infection rate is approximately one in 30,000 contact lens wearers and in around 85% of cases the condition is associated with contact lens use.
The organism that causes the infection has been found in most environments including domestic tap water, chlorinated swimming pools, hot tubs and bottled water. It is also present in the nasal passages of healthy people.
Most research studies reporting this infection in contact lens wearers link it directly with poor patient hygiene, usually as a result of poor compliance with the practitioner’s instructions for lens care. Risk factors for infection in contact lens wearers are:

• Use of tap water during lens care (to rinse lenses or the storage case)
• Wearing lenses while swimming (without goggles), showering or in hot tubs
• Use of ineffective lens care solutions
• Failure to follow lens care instructions
  

Most cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis are preventable if contact lens wearers follow the instructions given to them by their contact lens practitioner. Contact lens wearers not complying with these instructions may be increasing their risk of infection with Acanthamoeba and other organisms. Switching solutions without the advice of your contact lens practitioner is not recommended.

Always seek professional advice if you are having problems with your contact lenses and have regular check-ups as specified by your practitioner. Symptoms of Acanthamoeba keratitis include the sensation of having something in the eye, watery eyes, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, swelling of the upper eyelid and extreme pain. However, if you experience these symptoms it does not necessarily mean you have Acanthamoeba keratitis.

Each time you wear your lenses you should check that your eyes look clear (no redness), feel comfortable and see well. If they do not, remove your lenses immediately and seek the advice of your contact lens practitioner. "