A rare eye infection, Acanthamoeba keratitis can be very difficult to treat. That’s why the typical optometrist in Westminster, MD, will promote prevention of this infection. An Acanthamoeba is a naturally occurring tiny, one-celled animal often found in hot tubs, well water and other natural sources of water.
Causes
Acanthamoeba keratitis is caused when one of these amoebas infects the eye. Typically, this infection takes place due to improper handling of contact lenses in Westminster. Poor hygiene can also play a factor in this type of infection.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of this infection include red eyes, light sensitivity, eye pain after contact lens removal, blurred vision, tearing up, feeling like something is in your eye and a ring-like ulceration around your cornea. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should visit your eye doctor promptly. It is important for you to remember this infection is rare, and these symptoms could point to a different issue.
Treatment
The problem with treating this infection is that it is often mistaken for pink eye. If not diagnosed early enough, it can lead to permanent vision loss. It could also require a corneal transplant. The best way to treat this infection, as mentioned previously, is to prevent it. This means properly wearing and taking care of your contact lenses. Your optometrist in Westminster, MD, may suggest:
- Washing your hands before handling your contact lenses.
- Cleaning your contacts immediately after removal.
- Using a special cleaning solution rather than tap water.
- Regularly washing your contact case.
- Removing your contacts before swimming, going in a hot tub or showering.
- Soaking your contacts in a disinfecting solution every night.
- Replacing your contact lens case every one to three months.
Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare, but serious infection that may affect your eyes. You can easily prevent this infection by keeping up with smart contact lens hygiene. Talk with your eye doctor if you have any questions, and remember the importance of a regular Westminster eye exam.