It’s Not Just Science Fiction – Parasites Could Leave You Blind

You many think of people suffering from parasites is just in the realm of science fiction or only those living in poor, third world nations need to be concerned about it. Although parasitic health issues can be severe in poor countries, one that Americans should take precautions against could rob you of your eyesight. Acanthamoeba is a microscopic amoeba (a single-celled living organism) that may cause rare, but severe, infections of the eye as well as the skin and central nervous system. This amoeba is found in the water and soil.
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It can spread to the eyes through contact lens use in water where the acanthamoeba live. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare infection of the eye that generally happens in those who are otherwise healthy, but it could cause permanent visual impairment or blindness. Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped tissue on the front of your eye that covers the pupil and iris. Keratitis may or may not be caused by the Acanthamoeba. Noninfectious keratitis could be the result of a minor injury, wearing your contact lenses for too long or by a foreign body in the eye. Infectious keratitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Acanthamoeba keratitis can be very hard to treat and a cornea transplant may be needed to restore your sight. If you have symptoms of keratitis, call our office. With prompt attention, mild to moderate cases can usually be treated without loss of vision. If the problem is left untreated, or the infection is severe, keratitis can cause serious complications that could damage your vision. Symptoms of keratitis include:
  • Eye redness, irritation and pain
  • Excess tears or discharge
  • Difficulty opening your eyelid due to pain or irritation
  • Blurred or limited vision
  • Light sensitivity
Acanthamoeba may exist on the surface of your contact lens or in your contact lens carrying case. The cornea may become contaminated when the lens is in your eye. If you swim in water (particularly in oceans, rivers, lakes and hot tubs) with this parasite, especially while wearing your contacts, it may get into your eyes. Normally that’s not enough to cause acanthamoeba keratitis if your corneas are healthy. To gain a solid hold the parasites normally take advantage of a prior breakdown of the corneal surface, which could be caused by wearing a contact lens too long. Other risk factors include,
  • Not properly disinfecting contacts
  • Those with extended-wear contacts are more prone to the infection compared to those who remove them at night
  • Reduced immunity due to a compromised immune system
  • Use of corticosteroid eyedrops
  • A cornea that is injured, or has been injured in the past
To reduce the chances of getting Acanthamoeba keratitis,
  • Use daily wear contacts and remove them before going to sleep
  • Wash, rinse and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your contacts
  • Use only sterile products that are made specifically for contact lens care
  • Gently rub your lenses when cleaning them to increase the effectiveness of contact lens solutions
  • Avoid rough handling of your lenses, which may scratch them
  • Replace contact lenses as recommended
  • Replace your contact lens case every three to six months
  • Use fresh cleaning solution when you disinfect your lenses
  • Don't wear contact lenses when you swim
If you believe you have keratitis, contact us at 610-437-4988 or fill out our contact form so we can start the conversation and work together to protect your sight. This condition could rapidly threaten your ability to see, so do not hesitate to take action. Houman Ahdieh, MD Lehigh Valley Center for Sight https://www.lvcenter4sight.com eyedoc@lvcenter4sight.com

https://www.lvcenter4sight.com/its-not-just-science-fiction-parasites-could-leave-you-blind/

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