Saturday, September 6, 2008

Corneal Infections & 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 every 30000 contact lens wearers and around 85% of cases the condition is associated with the use of contact lenses.

The organism that causes the infection has been found in most environments at home tap water, chlorinated pools, hot tubs and bottled water. It is also present in the nasal passages of healthy people.

Most studies investigating reports of this infection in contact lens wearers linking it directly with poor hygiene patient, usually as a result of poor compliance with the instructions of medical care for the lenses. Risk factors for infection in contact lens wearers are as follows:
  • The use of tap water in the lens care (to rinse the lenses or for storage)
  • The use of lenses while swimming (without glasses), shower or hot tubs
  • The inefficient use of lens care solutions
  • Failure to comply with lens care instructions

Most cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis are avoidable if contact lens wearers follow the instructions they receive from their professional contact lenses. Users of contact lenses that do not comply with these instructions may be increasing their risk of infection Acanthamoeba and other agencies. Switching Solutions without the advice of his doctor of contact lenses is not recommended.

Always seek professional advice if you're having trouble with his contact lenses and having regular checkups as specified by your doctor. The symptoms of Acanthamoeba keratitis include the feeling of having something in their eyes, watery eyes, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, swelling of the upper eyelid and extreme pain. However, if you experience these symptoms does not necessarily mean that there Acanthamoeba keratitis.

Whenever you wear glasses should check to see his eyes clear (not redness), feel comfortable and well see. If not, remove your lenses immediately and seek advice from his doctor contact lenses ..

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