Contact lens use during showering linked to severe eye infection

A 20-year-old American woman, Grace Jamison, has warned against wearing contact lenses while showering after suffering severe vision loss due to Acanthamoeba keratitis. The infection is caused by Acanthamoeba, a microscopic single-celled parasite found in water, soil, and dust.

Jamison reported that the parasites became trapped under her contact lenses during her routine shower, embedding themselves into her corneas. The infection caused intense pain, redness, and light sensitivity. After an initial period of misdiagnosis, she experienced total blindness in both eyes for approximately four months. While she has partially regained sight in her left eye, she suffers from permanent scarring and vision damage.

Medical experts note that soft contact lens users are at higher risk because the lenses adhere more tightly to the cornea, potentially trapping organisms. To prevent such infections, specialists advise against sleeping, swimming, or showering while wearing contact lenses.