Contact lens wearers are advised to avoid showering with their lenses in due to the significant risk of developing severe eye infections. Tap water, even from household showers, is not sterile and can harbor microorganisms like bacteria and parasites, which can become trapped under contact lenses. This practice was highlighted by a Texas woman who reported losing vision in one eye and undergoing a cornea transplant after contracting Acanthamoeba keratitis, a parasitic infection she believes originated from showering in her contacts.
According to Dr. James Kelly, an ophthalmologist, showering in contact lenses is risky because tap water can contain harmful microorganisms. He noted that even brief exposure increases the risk of infections that can lead to severe pain, permanent scarring, and vision loss. Dr. Maria Montero, associate director of clinical services at Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, added that bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acanthamoeba, and parasites can adhere to contact lenses, potentially causing microbial keratitis.
Dr. Thomas J. Stokkermans, an optometrist, explained that Acanthamoeba protozoans and adenoviruses can be found in various water sources, including showers, while Serratia marcescens, which can cause infections, can survive in hot water. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is also present in showers and freshwater. Experts emphasize that people have lost eyes to such waterborne infections.
Beyond infection risks, water can alter the shape of soft contact lenses. Because these lenses are porous, they can absorb water, swell, and change shape. This can lead to discomfort, blurry vision, dryness, and irritation or damage to the eye's surface due to the difference in osmolarity between the tear film and tap water. Bathwater also poses risks, as it can contain bacteria and residues that lead to irritation or infection, and warm, humid environments can dry out lenses, making them stick to the cornea.
Experts universally recommend removing contact lenses before showering, bathing, or using hot tubs. If accidental exposure occurs, contact lens wearers should remove their lenses immediately, discard them, and clean their eyes with a sterile saline solution or artificial tears. It is also advised to put in a fresh pair of lenses or wear glasses for the remainder of the day. For reusable lenses, thorough disinfection is necessary.
If any eye pain, redness, or blurry vision occurs after water exposure while wearing contacts, seeking immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist is crucial for preventing permanent damage. General contact lens hygiene, such as not sleeping in lenses, washing hands before handling them, and using only approved contact lens solutions for cleaning and storage, remains paramount to preventing eye infections. Regularly replacing lenses and keeping the storage case clean also helps minimize contamination risks.