Wearing contact lenses instead of glasses is a popular choice for many individuals due to the convenience they offer in daily activities. Despite the ongoing expenses associated with them, people find contact lenses beneficial for various tasks.

In the past, I used to wear my contacts while showering. However, I have since changed this habit to avoid the risk of dislodging a lens while washing my face. This decision came after I read a disturbing account of a teenager who nearly went blind after a parasite entered her eye during a shower, all because she was wearing contact lenses.

Grace Jamison shared her experience on social media after being diagnosed with acanthamoeba keratitis, a condition caused by microscopic amoebas that can infect the cornea. She highlighted that acanthamoeba is commonly present in water sources like lakes, wells, and shower water, as well as in dust and dirt.

In a cautionary message, Grace advised contact lens wearers to handle their lenses with care and never wear them while swimming, sleeping, or showering. She emphasized the importance of proper maintenance, urging others to clean their solution regularly and avoid activities that increase the risk of eye infections.

Now blind, Grace uses her online platform to raise awareness and share her story. In a recent TikTok video from June 2026, she reminded viewers not to take their eyesight for granted and cautioned against wearing contact lenses in the shower to prevent similar incidents.

According to Specsavers, acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare eye infection primarily linked to contact lens use. Poor hygiene practices, corneal abrasions, and oxygen deprivation due to contact lens wear can elevate the risk of this infection and other eye issues.

Common causes of acanthamoeba keratitis include:

– Poor contact lens hygiene
– Swimming while wearing contact lenses
– Showering with contact lenses
– Sleeping in contact lenses

If any symptoms of acanthamoeba keratitis are observed, contact lens wearers are advised to cease using the lenses and seek immediate medical attention. Preserving the lenses for examination can aid in identifying the source of infection.

While contact lenses are generally safe when properly managed, research reveals that many cases of acanthamoeba keratitis stem from risky behaviors. Approximately 60% of affected individuals report irregular disinfection practices, and around 30% admit to swimming with their lenses on, as per Specsavers’ data.

To minimize the risk of acanthamoeba keratitis, here are some preventive measures to follow:

– Adhere to a strict contact lens care routine
– Avoid wearing lenses while swimming or showering
– Refrain from sleeping in contact lenses

Opting for these precautions can help reduce the likelihood of contracting acanthamoeba keratitis and other eye infections.