Texas woman goes blind after showering in contacts

A Texas woman shared a frightening experience about losing her vision after showering with contact lenses. Rachel Prochnow went blind in one eye due to a severe eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. She was diagnosed in July 2023 and had to undergo painful treatments, including a cornea transplant in 2024. Prochnow's story highlights the risks of wearing contact lenses in the shower. Experts warn that shower water is not sterile and can contain harmful microorganisms. These germs can cause serious infections if they get trapped under the lenses. Even short exposure to tap water can increase the risk of severe eye problems, including pain and vision loss. Doctors recommend removing contact lenses before showering. If you must wear them, keep your eyes closed as much as possible. It is also important to use preservative-free artificial tears afterward to flush out any possible contaminants. In addition to infections, showering with contacts can alter the shape of the lenses, making them uncomfortable. Water can cause them to swell and fit poorly, leading to blurry vision and dryness. Bathwater poses similar risks, with the potential for bacteria and soap residues that could irritate the eyes. If water gets into your eyes while wearing contacts, remove the lenses immediately and clean your eye area with saline solution or artificial tears. It's best to avoid using tap water to clean or store contact lenses, as it can introduce harmful microorganisms. If you notice sudden eye pain, redness, or blurry vision, seek medical help right away. For better eye health, always follow proper hygiene practices, including not sleeping in contacts. Regularly changing lenses and keeping them clean can help prevent infections and maintain vision health.