Contact lens wearers are encouraged to look after their eyes after an outbreak of a rare infection that can lead to blindness.
Researchers have seen a three-fold increase in the number of cases of acanthamoebakeratitis (a microorganism responsible for the disorder) since 2011 in South East England.
Preventable infection causes the front of the eye, the cornea to become painful, and inflammation and contact lens wearers to be most at risk.
Without treatment, this microorganism can infiltrate the cornea and cause blindness for several months. has Researchers at Moorfields Eye Hospital have found that between 2000 and 2003, eight to ten cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis were registered at the hospital.
Professor John Dart said there were about 2.5 cases per 100,000 lens wearers in 2002. However, he added that the current rate is two to three times higher.
The most severely affected patients have less than 25% of their vision or become blind after being infected.
"This increase in the number of cases highlights the need for contact lens users to become aware of the risks."
Acanthamoeba, which feeds on bacteria, can be present in all forms of water, such as swimming pools, spas and even showers.
Showering, swimming and using hot tubs while wearing contact lenses was also a risk factor.
"Contact lenses are medical devices and must be provided with warnings about their safe use"
"In the United Kingdom, millions of contact lens wearers are happy to wear healthy contact lenses and, fortunately, incidents of acanthamoeba keratitis, while devastating, are extremely rare. "
What is acanthamoeba keratitis?
This rare infection of the eye can have catastrophic consequences such as loss of sight in one eye or permanent blindness.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), acanthamoeba are ubiquitous microscopic organisms found in lake water and soils. However, these organisms can also be detected in pools, hot tubs, or even in drinking water.
Many people are exposed to these organisms, but only a few are infected because they rinse immediately. Infection with acanthamoeba keratitis can occur through lesions or other ocular trauma, exposure to contaminated water or poor hygiene compared to eye care.
What are the symptoms of acanthamoeba keratitis?
Symptoms of acanthamoeba keratitis include:
Sensitivity to light and excessive tearing
A blurred vision that is accompanied by redness and pain;
The feeling of having something in the eye;
Violent headaches.
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not ignore them. Contact your eye doctor immediately. Tell him if you went swimming and where. Any information you can provide may be useful.