Contact lenses offer a convenient and effective way to correct vision without needing glasses. However, while they provide many benefits, following proper usage guidelines to maintain eye health is crucial.
One of the most important rules is to avoid sleeping in your contact lenses. Despite the temptation to leave them overnight, doing so can lead to serious eye complications. We explain why removing your contact lenses before bed is essential and the potential risks associated with sleeping in them.
The Dangers of Sleeping in Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are designed to sit on your eye's surface, allowing oxygen to pass through to the cornea. However, the reduced oxygen supply can create a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful microorganisms when you sleep with your contact lenses.
This lack of oxygen can lead to various eye issues, from mild discomfort to severe infections.
1. Increased Risk of Eye Infections
Sleeping in contact lenses significantly increases the risk of developing eye infections, such as keratitis, a painful condition that affects the cornea. Keratitis can lead to redness, pain, blurred vision, and, in severe cases, vision loss.
The risk of infection is higher because the lenses trap bacteria and other pathogens against your eye, where they can multiply more easily in the warm, moist environment created by your closed eyelids.
2. Corneal Hypoxia
The cornea requires a steady supply of oxygen to stay healthy. When you sleep with contact lenses in, oxygen flow to the cornea is reduced, leading to a condition known as corneal hypoxia. This lack of oxygen can cause the cornea to swell, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, and an increased risk of infection.
Chronic hypoxia can also result in long-term damage to the cornea, potentially affecting your vision permanently.
3. Dryness and Discomfort
Contact lenses can dry out your eyes, especially during sleep, when tear production decreases. Sleeping in your lenses can cause them to stick to your eyes, leading to significant discomfort upon waking.
This dryness can also increase the risk of microscopic scratches on the surface of your eye, which can become infected if not properly treated.
4. Risk of Corneal Ulcers
In more severe cases, sleeping with contact lenses can lead to the development of corneal ulcers and open sores on the cornea that can cause severe pain and vision problems. Corneal ulcers require immediate medical attention and can lead to permanent cornea scarring if not treated promptly.
Best Practices for Contact Lens Wear
To protect your eyes and maintain healthy vision, it’s important to follow these best practices when wearing contact lenses:
- Remove Lenses Before Bed: Always remove your contact lenses before sleeping, even if you’re just taking a nap. This ensures that your eyes get the oxygen they need and reduces the risk of infections.
- Follow the Replacement Schedule: Use your contact lenses according to the recommended replacement schedule. Over-wearing lenses can increase the risk of complications.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses and clean them regularly using the appropriate solution.
- Regular Eye Exams: Schedule regular eye exams to monitor your eye health and ensure your contact lenses are still a good fit for your needs.
Ensure Your Healthy Vision At
Contact lenses offer an excellent solution for active kids who need vision correction. While contact lenses provide great convenience, it's
essential to use them correctly to avoid serious eye health issues. Sleeping in your contact lenses can lead to infections, discomfort, and long-term eye damage.
At Complete Family Eye Care, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy vision with expert advice and care.
If you have any questions about your contact lenses or need to schedule an eye exam, contact us at Complete Family Eye Care. Your eye health is our top priority!