If you wear contact lenses, you likely follow essential hygiene practices—washing your hands before handling them, never sleeping with them in, and replacing them as recommended. But one everyday habit could be putting your vision at serious risk: showering with your contact lenses on.
Recently, a shocking story from a Texas woman, Rachel Prochnow, went viral on Instagram. She shared how showering in her contacts led to a devastating eye infection, ultimately resulting in a cornea transplant.
“I went blind in one eye from showering in my contacts and had to get a cornea transplant,” Prochnow revealed in a video post, warning others about the dangers of exposing contact lenses to water.
Her experience highlights a critical but often overlooked risk for contact lens users. Let’s dive deeper into why showering with contacts is so dangerous and how you can protect your vision.
Why Is Showering with Contact Lenses Dangerous?
Many people assume that tap water is clean and harmless. However, according to eye health experts, showering while wearing contacts can expose your eyes to harmful microorganisms, increasing the risk of severe infections.
Dr. James Kelly, an ophthalmologist and founder of Kelly Vision, explains, “Tap water is not sterile. It can contain harmful bacteria and parasites, like Acanthamoeba, that can get trapped under contact lenses and lead to dangerous infections.”
One of the most severe infections is Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but painful eye condition that can cause permanent vision loss. This aggressive infection is difficult to diagnose and treat, often leading to prolonged suffering and, in some cases, corneal transplants.
Dr. Maria Montero, Associate Director of Clinical Services at Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, adds, “Even a few seconds of water exposure can significantly increase your risk of microbial keratitis, corneal ulcers, and scarring.”
What Happens If You Get Water in Your Eyes While Wearing Contacts?
If water splashes into your eyes while showering or bathing with contacts in, here’s what could happen:
- Microorganisms can adhere to the lenses – Bacteria and parasites can get trapped between your contact lens and the surface of your eye, making it difficult for your body to fight infections.
- Your lenses may warp or change shape – Contact lenses are designed to be in the tear film, which has a specific salt concentration. Water can alter the lens shape, causing discomfort, blurry vision, and making them harder to remove.
- Your lenses can absorb contaminants – Soft contact lenses are porous, meaning they can absorb water along with any bacteria or chemicals present.
Other Hidden Risks of Showering with Contacts
Beyond infection, wearing contact lenses in the shower or bath poses additional risks:
1. Water-Induced Lens Discomfort
Soft contact lenses can swell when they absorb water, making them fit improperly on your eye. This can cause irritation, dryness, and difficulty in removing them.
2. Increased Risk of Corneal Damage
Water exposure can make contact lenses stick to the cornea, increasing the risk of small scratches or abrasions that may lead to infections.
3. Chemical and Soap Residue Contamination
Shampoos, conditioners, and body washes contain chemicals that can irritate your eyes if they get trapped under your lenses.
What About Baths or Hot Tubs?
Bathing or sitting in a hot tub with your contact lenses poses similar risks. Water in bathtubs can harbor bacteria, soap residue, and even mold, which can cling to your lenses. Additionally, the warm and humid environment can dry out your contacts, making them less comfortable to wear and increasing the risk of corneal damage.
What Should You Do If You Accidentally Get Water in Your Eyes While Wearing Contacts?
If your eyes come into contact with water while you have your contact lenses in, follow these steps immediately:
- Remove your contact lenses as soon as possible.
- Rinse your eyes with sterile saline solution or preservative-free artificial tears. Avoid using tap water for rinsing.
- Dispose of the contact lenses if they are daily disposables. If you wear reusable lenses, disinfect them thoroughly before putting them back in.
- Monitor for symptoms such as pain, redness, excessive tearing, or blurry vision. If you experience any of these signs, seek urgent care from an eye specialist.
How to Protect Your Eyes: Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers
To minimize your risk of infections and other complications, follow these essential safety tips:
✔️ Always remove your contacts before showering, swimming, or using hot tubs. ✔️ Never clean or store your lenses in tap water. Use only contact lens solution approved by your eye care provider. ✔️ Follow the replacement schedule recommended for your lenses. Whether you use daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses, do not extend their usage. ✔️ Consider switching to daily disposable lenses. This reduces the risk of contamination compared to reusable lenses. ✔️ Keep your contact lens case clean and dry. Rinse it with solution, not water, and replace it every three months. ✔️ See your eye doctor regularly for check-ups. Early detection of eye conditions can prevent serious complications.
Final Thoughts: Prioritize Your Eye Health
Your eyes are incredibly delicate, and preventing infections is far easier than treating them. Even though showering with contacts might seem harmless, the risks are far too great to ignore. By taking a few extra precautions, you can protect your vision and avoid painful, potentially sight-threatening conditions.
Remember: Always remove your contacts before exposing your eyes to water. It’s a simple habit that can save you from long-term vision problems.
If you experience sudden eye pain, redness, or blurry vision after water exposure, seek medical attention immediately. Your eyesight is priceless—take care of it!
