A 39-year-old man, Groeschen, experienced severe vision loss due to a common yet risky habit: sleeping in contact lenses. After waking up with eye irritation that worsened over several days, he sought medical attention at the Cincinnati Eye Institute. Doctors diagnosed him with a severe Pseudomonas bacterial infection, which had developed under his contact lenses overnight. The infection eroded his cornea, leading to significant vision impairment.
Despite the infection being cleared, Groeschen was left with scar tissue that severely affected his vision, described by doctors as akin to “seeing through frosted glass.” His only chance to regain sight is through a cornea transplant, a major surgery with a year-long recovery period. As a result, he had to halt operations at his design restoration company.
Groeschen noted that his contact lens packaging claimed overnight wear was safe. However, experts, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, have warned that sleeping in any contact lenses significantly increases the risk of infection. Dr. William Faulkner, his physician, advises against overnight lens use and stresses proper hygiene: replacing lens cases regularly and always using fresh cleaning solution.
Key Takeaways:
- Avoid sleeping in contact lenses, even if labeled for overnight use.
- Maintain proper lens hygiene: replace cases regularly and use fresh cleaning solution.
- Be vigilant for signs of eye irritation and seek prompt medical attention.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with improper contact lens use.