The Real Cost of Sleeping in Your Contact Lenses

By Dr. Austin Andersen, MD — Ophthalmologist

Medically reviewed by Dr. Austin Andersen, MD

Understanding the Risks: Why Sleeping in Contacts is a Bad Idea

Many of us have been there. It's late, you're tired, and the thought of taking out your contact lenses seems like a monumental task. You might even think, "Just this once." However, sleeping in your contact lenses, even for a short nap, carries significant risks to your eye health. It's not just about comfort; it's about protecting your vision. At Professional Eyecare Oak Park, we prioritize clear, healthy eyes for all our patients in Overland Park and surrounding areas like Olathe and Leawood.

Your eyes need oxygen to stay healthy. Contact lenses, by their nature, reduce the amount of oxygen reaching your cornea. While daily wear lenses are designed to allow some oxygen flow during waking hours, they are not made for extended wear during sleep. When your eyelids are closed, the oxygen supply is further restricted, creating an environment ripe for complications.

Common Problems Caused by Sleeping in Contacts

The consequences of sleeping in contact lenses can range from mild irritation to severe, vision-threatening infections. Understanding these risks can help reinforce the importance of proper contact lens care.

Corneal Ulcers

One of the most serious risks is the development of corneal ulcers. A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye. These can be incredibly painful and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision loss or even require a corneal transplant. Bacteria, fungi, or parasites can easily thrive in the low-oxygen, moist environment created by sleeping in contacts, leading to these dangerous infections.

Eye Infections

Beyond ulcers, sleeping in contacts significantly increases your risk of various eye infections. Bacteria and other microorganisms that naturally live on your skin and in your environment can become trapped between the lens and your eye. Without proper oxygen and the cleansing action of blinking and tears, these organisms can multiply rapidly. Symptoms of an eye infection include redness, pain, discharge, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and contact our office.

Corneal Neovascularization

When your cornea is deprived of oxygen for extended periods, it can trigger a response where new blood vessels begin to grow into the cornea. This condition, called corneal neovascularization, is the eye's attempt to bring more oxygen to the deprived area. However, these new blood vessels are often fragile and can leak, causing inflammation and scarring that can obstruct vision. Once these vessels grow, they can be difficult to eliminate.

Dry Eyes and Irritation

Even if you avoid a severe infection, sleeping in contacts can lead to chronic dry eyes and irritation. The lenses can absorb moisture from your eyes, leaving them feeling gritty, red, and uncomfortable. This can make wearing contacts during the day less tolerable and impact your overall eye comfort. If you frequently experience tired eyes, this habit could be a contributing factor.

Best Practices for Contact Lens Wear

Protecting your vision means adhering to recommended contact lens care guidelines. These practices are designed to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.

• Always Remove Before Sleep: This is the most crucial rule. Whether it's a full night's sleep or a short nap, always take out your contact lenses.
• Clean and Disinfect Properly: Use only the recommended contact lens solution. Rub and rinse your lenses as instructed by your eye care professional. Never use tap water or saliva.
• Replace Lenses as Directed: Adhere to the replacement schedule for your specific lenses (daily, bi-weekly, monthly). Over-wearing lenses increases risk.
• Replace Lens Case Regularly: Your contact lens case can harbor bacteria. Replace it every three months, or sooner if it's cracked or dirty.
• Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel before handling your contact lenses.
• Regular Eye Exams: Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams to ensure your contact lenses fit properly and your eyes remain healthy. This is especially important for contact lens wearers in the Kansas City area.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you have accidentally slept in your contact lenses and experience any discomfort, redness, pain, discharge, or changes in vision, it's vital to seek professional help immediately. Do not try to self-treat. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems. Our team at Professional Eyecare Oak Park is here to provide human-centered care and intelligent solutions for your eye health needs.

Your vision is a priority. Taking a few extra moments each night to remove your contact lenses can save you from significant discomfort, potential vision loss, and the real cost of treating serious eye conditions. We believe eye care should be clear, not confusing. If you have questions about proper contact lens care or need an appointment, we are ready to help. Schedule your appointment today and ensure your eyes receive the clarity and care they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the immediate effects of sleeping in contact lenses?

Immediately after sleeping in contacts, you might experience dry, irritated, red eyes, and a feeling of grittiness. Your vision might also be blurry due to the dryness and lack of oxygen.

Can I sleep in extended wear contact lenses?

Some contact lenses are approved for extended wear, which means they can be worn for several days or weeks continuously, including while sleeping. However, this should only be done under the direct guidance and prescription of your eye care professional, as even extended wear lenses carry a higher risk of infection compared to daily wear.

How long after sleeping in contacts should I wait to put them back in?

If you've accidentally slept in your contacts, remove them immediately and give your eyes a rest. It's best to wait at least a full day (24 hours) before reinserting new, fresh lenses, allowing your eyes to recover and rehydrate. If you experience any symptoms of irritation or infection, do not reinsert lenses and contact your eye doctor.

What should I do if my contact lens feels stuck after sleeping?

If a contact lens feels stuck, do not force it out. Blink several times and apply a few drops of rewetting solution or sterile saline solution to your eye to lubricate it. Gently massage your eyelid to try and dislodge the lens. If it still won't come out, or if you experience pain, seek professional help from an eye care provider.