A 39-year-old man named Groeschen woke up one morning with an irritated eye. Initially suspecting allergies, he didn’t think much of it. However, as the discomfort worsened over the next few days, he decided to seek medical help.
At the Cincinnati Eye Institute, Groeschen received alarming news. He had contracted a bacterial infection caused by Pseudomonas. Doctors determined the likely culprit: sleeping in his contact lenses. This habit allowed the bacteria to thrive under the lenses, leading to a serious infection.
Despite being treated with antibiotics that eradicated the bacteria, the damage was already done. Groeschen developed a corneal ulcer, and the resulting scar tissue left him partially blind in the affected eye.
“It’s like trying to see through frosted glass,” doctors explained. “The infection eroded part of the cornea, and the scarring significantly impairs vision, even after the infection clears.”
To restore his sight, Groeschen will require a corneal transplant, a procedure with a lengthy recovery time of about a year.
As the owner of a design and restoration company, the vision loss made it challenging for him to keep up with his work. Reflecting on his experience, Groeschen pointed out that his contact lenses were labeled as safe for overnight wear, but he believes this advice should be reconsidered.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has long warned about the dangers of wearing any type of contact lenses overnight, stating that it significantly increases the risk of eye infections.
Dr. William Faulkner, who treated Groeschen, emphasized, “The safest approach for eye health is to avoid sleeping in contact lenses altogether. Daily-wear disposable lenses are the best option for reducing risks.”
Other risky behaviors among contact lens users include using old lens cases for too long and failing to completely replace the cleaning solution after each use.
This story serves as an important reminder: seemingly harmless habits, like sleeping in contact lenses, can have serious consequences.
Please share this article to raise awareness and help others avoid similar risks.
Your Body Warns You: 7 Signs to Watch for a Month Before a Heart Attack
In today’s fast-paced world, stress and unhealthy lifestyles have become common, increasing the risk of serious health issues. Many people rely on fast food, struggle with maintaining a healthy weight, and face obesity, all of which can contribute to heart disease.
Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in America, but did you know that your body may warn you weeks in advance? Recognizing these signs early could save your life.
Here are seven key symptoms to watch for:
1. Extreme Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired, weak, or drained—especially without a clear reason—can indicate reduced blood flow to the heart due to narrowed arteries. Persistent fatigue may be an early warning sign of heart trouble.
2. Shortness of Breath
When your heart isn’t pumping efficiently, your lungs may not receive enough oxygen, leading to breathing difficulties. If you find yourself struggling to catch your breath, it’s important to consult a doctor as it could signal an impending heart attack.
3. Unexplained Weakness
Sudden and unexplained weakness might be your body’s way of telling you to slow down. If you frequently feel weak or faint, don’t ignore it—seek medical attention.
4. Dizziness and Cold Sweats
Poor circulation can cause dizziness and excessive sweating. If you feel lightheaded or break out in cold sweats without any obvious cause, it may be a sign of heart issues.
5. Flu-Like Symptoms
Many heart attack survivors report experiencing flu-like symptoms—such as nausea, chills, or body aches—just days before their attack. If you’re feeling unwell but suspect it’s more than just a cold, don’t dismiss it.
6. Chest Pressure or Discomfort
A common warning sign of a heart attack is persistent chest pressure, discomfort, or pain. This sensation often increases in intensity leading up to an attack. If you experience chest tightness, seek immediate medical help.
7. Swelling in the Feet and Ankles
Congestive heart failure can cause fluid buildup, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. If you notice persistent swelling, it could be a sign that your heart isn’t pumping blood effectively.
Take Action—Your Health Matters!
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Consult a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of a heart attack.
For more expert advice, watch the video below featuring Dr. Travis Stork discussing heart attack symptoms.
Also, check out a helpful demonstration on Heart Attack Cough (Self-Aid).
Share this article with your loved ones—you could help save a life!
Leave a Reply