What Happens When You Leave Contact Lenses In Too Long
# The Risks of Improper Contact Use: A Harsh Reminder from a 23-Year-Old’s Tragic Experience
## Introduction
Have you ever wondered what would happen if you left your contact lenses in for an extended period? Imagine this: a young woman in Taiwan, just 23 years old, decided to leave her contacts in without removing or cleaning them—even while swimming. What followed was a terrifying chain of events that ultimately led to her losing her eyesight.
This story is not just shocking; it’s a stark reminder of the importance of proper contact lens hygiene and adherence to wear schedules. In this article, we’ll delve into the dangers of improper contact use, the science behind the infection that robbed this young woman of her sight, and essential tips to avoid such tragedies in the future.
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## The Danger of Improper Contact Use
Lacy Green, host of D News, kicks off the discussion by sharing her own experience with contacts. She admits that she used to wear them but stopped due to the discomfort they caused. However, she expresses confusion over why someone would continue wearing contacts for months without proper care.
The case in question involves a 23-year-old woman from Taiwan who left her contacts in for an astonishing six months without removal or cleaning. This lapse in hygiene created a breeding ground for a tiny yet dangerous parasite: *Acanthamoeba*.
This single-celled amoeba, commonly found in dirt, dust, and even swimming pools, thrives in environments where bacteria are present. In this young woman’s case, the amoeba settled between her contact lens and eye, feeding on the bacteria that had accumulated due to improper care.
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## The Harsh Consequences: Bacterial Keratitis
The infection caused by *Acanthamoeba* led to a condition known as bacterial keratitis—an inflammation of the cornea’s surface. This type of infection is responsible for 95% of all contact lens-related infections, according to experts.
Bacteria and amoebas are not the only culprits here; the prolonged wear of contacts can also lead to physical damage. When left in for too long, contacts can cause tiny tears in the epithelium, the protective outer layer of the eye. These microscopic abrasions serve as entry points for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
Moreover, exposure to water while wearing contacts is particularly dangerous. Contacts absorb unsterile water and microorganisms when submerged, altering their fit and causing discomfort or tightness. This tightening can exacerbate the problem by creating more tiny tears in the epithelium.
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## The Downward Spiral
In this young woman’s case, the infection progressed rapidly. The *Acanthamoeba* not only feasted on bacteria but eventually turned its attention to her retina and even the surface of her eye. By the time she sought medical help, the damage was irreversible, leaving her with blindness as a harsh consequence.
This story is a stark reminder of how quickly things can go wrong when contact lenses are misused. The consequences are severe, and the lesson could not be clearer: always follow proper contact lens protocols to avoid such tragedies.
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## Why Proper Contact Hygiene Matters
Contacts are designed for convenience, but they come with responsibilities. Here’s why adhering to proper hygiene practices is non-negotiable:
1. **Avoid Reusing Solution**: Using the same solution repeatedly or refilling it multiple times can lead to contamination. Always use fresh solution and never reuse old batches.
2. **Skip the Saliva**: It might seem convenient, but using saliva as a cleaning agent for contacts is a recipe for disaster. Saliva is loaded with bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
3. **Replace Cases Regularly**: Even if you clean your lenses daily, the case itself can become a source of contamination over time. Replace it every few months to ensure cleanliness.
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## The Bigger Picture
With an estimated 70 million people worldwide wearing contact lenses, this issue affects a significant portion of the population. Many individuals are unaware of the risks associated with improper use, leading to preventable infections and complications.
Lacy Green emphasizes that contacts require a strict commitment to hygiene and adherence to wear schedules. They sit on your eyeballs all day, making them vulnerable to dust, bacteria, and other environmental hazards. The moment you deviate from proper care practices, you’re putting yourself at risk.
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## Conclusion
The case of the young woman in Taiwan serves as a cautionary tale for anyone who wears contact lenses. While they offer convenience and confidence, contacts demand meticulous care to avoid serious health complications.
Always follow these guidelines:
- Remove and clean your contacts daily unless instructed otherwise by your eye care professional.
- Avoid exposing them to water while wearing.
- Use fresh solution every time and replace cases regularly.
- Never exceed the recommended wear schedule (e.g., overnight wear is a no-go unless specified by your doctor).
For the love of science—and your eyesight—please prioritize proper contact lens care. Your vision is worth it.
Thanks for joining us on D News, where we aim to keep you informed and safe. See you next time!