Fusaruim keratitis--A severe fungal infection of the cornea that has recently been linked to soft contact lens use (recently profiled in our national news).

Your best steps to prevent this infection are:

1.Follow lens wearing guidelines, including wearing schedule and replacement instructions—DO NOT over-wear lenses.

2.Always wash your hands with an anti-bacterial soap before handling your contact lenses.

3.Follow proper care and disinfecting regimens, as recommended our office.

4.Use proper product to both clean and disinfect lenses as recommended our office (saline solution and rewetting drops DO NOT disinfect).

5.Never reuse solution. Use fresh everyday.

6.Remove your contacts after doing yard work, then clean and disinfect your lenses.

7.Contact Dr. Huff if you experience any of these symptoms:

a.Sudden blurred or fuzzy vision

b.Red and irritated eyes

c.Pain in or around the eyes

d.Increased sensitivity to light

e.Excessive eye tearing

If you experience a problem of this nature, call us immediately for an appointment: 314-997-3833

For more information about this infection, we recommend visiting the American Optometric Association’s website: http://www.aoa.org/

April 11, 2006