Man goes blind after sleeping with contact lenses, experts warn of irreversible damage
Chad Groeschen’s vision loss resulted from a dangerous infection caused by sleeping in “Night and Day” contact lenses, which are supposed to allow extended wear. He woke with severe pain and cloudy vision, eventually needing a corneal transplant.
Groeschen’s case highlights risks associated with overnight contact lens use, including increased infection rates. A 2013 study found that sleeping in contacts raises infection risk. Similarly, Mike Krumholz suffered severe eye damage from sleeping in daily disposable lenses, resulting in a rare parasitic infection.
To prevent infections:
- Wash hands before touching lenses.
- Remove lenses before sleeping, showering, or swimming.
- Clean and store lenses properly.
- Replace lens cases regularly.
Good eye hygiene is crucial to avoid serious complications like blindness.