Wearing contact lenses provides a convenient alternative to traditional eyeglasses. They offer greater flexibility and a wider field of vision. However, wearing them can also pose risks if proper care is not taken.

Sleeping in contact lenses is one such example. While some people might find it easier to keep their lenses on while they sleep, it is not recommended by doctors or optometrists.

1. The Risk of Eye Infections

Sleeping in contact lenses greatly increases the risk of developing an eye infection. This can happen because when we sleep, the body naturally produces less fluid and tears and our closed eyes create a warm, moist environment.

Contact lenses reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches the cornea and limits the eye’s natural defense systems. As a result, bacteria, viruses, and other foreign matter can accumulate on the contact lens, increasing the chances of infection.

2. Risk of Corneal Hypoxia

Corneal hypoxia is a condition in which the cornea does not receive enough oxygen. Wearing contact lenses for long periods, especially during sleep, can cause the cornea to become hypoxic which leads to a lack of oxygen supply.

The cornea is one of the most oxygen-sensitive tissues in the human body. It relies on oxygen from the atmosphere to function correctly. Blocking its supply of oxygen interferes with its ability to function correctly.

3. Reduced Vision and Comfort

Wearing contact lenses for an extended period of time interferes with the cornea’s ability to heal and regenerate.

If you sleep with contact lenses, you can wake up with a feeling of dryness and discomfort as your eyes adjust to the lenses’ presence further. This discomfort can also cause your vision to become blurry, causing you to perform poorly at work or school. This can lead to you removing the lenses prematurely, which can cause even more problems like inflammation, abrasions, and other eye injuries.

4. Exacerbation of Existing Eye Conditions

If you have an existing eye condition like dry eyes, sleeping with contact lenses can make things much worse. The impact of the lenses for long periods can irritate dry eyes, and they can become more inflamed and uncomfortable.

It is essential to have a dialogue with your optometrist before you undergo any corrective treatment for eye problems, whether or not you intend to wear contact lenses.

Wearing contact lenses for an extended period increases the risk of eye issues from contact lenses doubling. That’s a fact.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, sleeping with contact lenses makes you six to eight times more susceptible to conditions like corneal ulcers. This can cause severe eye pain, redness, and discharge even permanently damaging the cornea.

Cornea damage or scarring may require a corneal transplant, which is a surgical operation that is time-consuming, costly, and that many people find difficult to schedule.

6. Avoid Sleeping in Lenses if Possible

If possible, avoid sleeping with contact lenses altogether. It’s better to remove and clean them before sleeping.

If you have to wear these lenses throughout the day, stick to daily replacement lenses or extended wear lenses as advised by your eye doctor. If you plan to wear any contact lens for overnight use, talk to your eye doctor about the risk and the necessary precautions to take.

7. Improper Contact Lens Care

It is crucial to use the appropriate contact lens disinfectant solution as improper cleaning and maintenance of contact lenses will increase your risk of developing an eye infection.

Avoid using tap water to clean contact lenses, as it contains bacteria and can cause infections. Instead, use a soft brush to scrub the lenses gently. Also, avoid cleaning lenses with saline solution, as it does not disinfect lenses and can cause infection. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean contact lenses properly.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, sleeping in contact lenses is not a good idea. It increases the risk of eye infection, corneal hypoxia, reduced vision and comfort, exacerbation of existing eye conditions, and increased risks for contact lens-related eye issues.

It is essential to take proper precautions and follow the prescribed use of contact lenses to avoid any problems. When in doubt, always consult your eye doctor before doing anything that could affect your eye health.