Tap water is a household staple, yet it may carry hidden dangers for your eyes. Health experts warn about Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a rare but potentially devastating eye infection linked to contaminated water. The risk is especially high for contact lens users, as rinsing or storing lenses in tap water allows the microscopic parasite to reach the cornea. Though uncommon, AK can cause severe eye pain, persistent inflammation, blurred vision, and, in advanced cases, permanent blindness. Understanding how Acanthamoeba spreads, recognising its early symptoms, and adopting proper eye care practices are vital steps to protect and preserve your vision.
How using tap water can harm your eyes with acanthamoeba infection
A UK study published in Ophthalmology revealed a clear link between household tap water and Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK). Researchers collected water samples from the homes of people with AK and discovered:
In 89% of homes, tap outlets contained free-living amoebae, including Acanthamoeba.In nearly one-third of cases (30%), the same strain of Acanthamoeba found in tap water was also detected in the patient’s infected eye.Tap water is safe to drink, but it’s not sterile. When people rinse or store their contact lenses in tap water, tiny amoebae can cling to the lens. Once the lens is placed on the eye, these organisms can transfer directly to the cornea. Even small scratches from inserting or removing lenses make it easier for Acanthamoeba to invade and cause infection.This study clearly shows that everyday tap water can act as a hidden source of dangerous eye infections, especially for contact lens users who skip proper hygiene.
Understanding what Acanthamoeba is and its symptoms
Acanthamoeba are microscopic, free-living protozoa found in soil, tap water, pools, and even air-conditioning units. They can exist in an active trophozoite stage or a highly resilient cyst form, capable of surviving extreme conditions. When Acanthamoeba infects the cornea, it causes Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK). Common symptoms include:
- Red, painful eyes
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Light sensitivity (photophobia)
- Excessive tearing
- A gritty sensation in the eye
Untreated, AK can lead to severe corneal damage and even permanent vision loss
Causes of Acanthamoeba Keratitis infection
Acanthamoeba keratitis develops when the parasite enters the cornea, usually through contaminated water or improper lens hygiene. Several factors raise the risk:
- Contaminated water exposure: Tap water, swimming pools, hot tubs, and even showers may harbour Acanthamoeba cysts. Since tap water is not sterile, exposure during lens cleaning or swimming is one of the most common transmission routes.
- Poor
contact lens hygiene : Rinsing, cleaning, or storing contact lenses in tap water, homemade saline, or expired solutions dramatically increases AK risk. Studies show lens wearers who use tap water are up to 6× more likely to develop AK.
- Corneal micro-trauma: Small scratches or abrasions caused by contact lenses reduce the eye’s natural protective barrier, creating an entry point for Acanthamoeba. Even tiny injuries can allow infection to begin.
- Reusable lenses: A 2023 study found that wearing reusable contact lenses increases the risk of AK nearly fourfold compared to daily disposables.
- Prolonged lens wear: Sleeping or napping with contact lenses reduces oxygen supply to the cornea, weakens its surface, and raises infection risk.
- Environmental exposure: Outdoor activities involving dust, soil, or untreated water sources (like lakes and rivers) can increase the chance of Acanthamoeba entering the eye, especially in warm and humid climates.
Health risks of Acathamoeba if not treated properly
The impact of AK can be severe and long-lasting:
- Persistent ocular pain and inflammation
- Corneal scarring and opacification
- Permanent vision impairment or total blindness
- High potential need for corneal transplantation in advanced cases
Rarely, in severely immunocompromised individuals, Acanthamoeba can cause life-threatening systemic infections
Prevention tips
Follow these evidence-based strategies to protect your eyes:
- Never use tap water for rinsing or storing contact lenses. Always use sterile, recommended lens solutions
- Switch to daily disposable lenses, a 2023 study found that reusable lenses increase AK risk by nearly fourfold
- Remove lenses before swimming, showering, or entering hot tubs.
- Clean and air-dry your hands before handling lenses.
- Replace your lens case regularly to prevent biofilm buildup
Regular eye care check-ups and proper hygiene can significantly reduce risk; AK is largely preventableDisclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine or treatment.Also read | Diabetes warning! Excessive thirst could be the silent symptom you are missing
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