Groeschen, 39, woke up with eye irritation that worsened over several days. At the Cincinnati Eye Institute, doctors diagnosed him with a severe Pseudomonas bacterial infection, linked to sleeping in his contact lenses. The bacteria thrived under the lenses overnight, eroding his cornea and causing vision loss.

Doctors compared his vision to “seeing through frosted glass.” Even after clearing the infection, scar tissue remained, leaving a cornea transplant as his only chance to regain sight—a major surgery with a year-long recovery.

Groeschen, who owns a design restoration company, had to stop working. He noted that his contact lens packaging claimed overnight wear was safe, but experts disagree. The American Academy of Ophthalmology warned in 2013 that sleeping in any contact lenses greatly increases infection risk.

Dr. William Faulkner, his physician, advises against overnight lens use and stresses proper hygiene: replace lens cases regularly and always use fresh cleaning solution.