As contact lens wearers, we’ve all had that moment where we realize that we’ve accidentally drifted off to sleep while still wearing our lenses. It’s common to wonder, “What happens if you sleep with your contacts?” In this article, we’ll delve into the risks and consequences of sleeping with contacts in, explore what happens if you sleep with contacts on by accident, and provide valuable insights to ensure you take the best care of your eyes.
What Happens If You Sleep With Your Contacts In?
Sleeping with contact lenses isn’t the same as wearing them during the day. When we sleep, our eyes receive less oxygen, and the lenses create a barrier between the surface of our eyes and the oxygen-rich environment around us. This can lead to hypoxia, where the cornea is deprived of oxygen. The combination of reduced oxygen and a foreign body (the contact lens) can lead to several problems, which we will discuss further in this article.
The Risks of Sleeping With Contacts On
- Corneal Infections: One of the most significant risks of sleeping with contacts is developing a corneal infection. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can become trapped under the contact lens, leading to the growth of microbes and an increased risk of infection. A serious infection called microbial keratitis can cause vision loss if left untreated.
- Dry Eyes: Our eyes produce fewer tears while asleep, leading to reduced lubrication. When combined with a reduced oxygen supply, this can cause the eyes to become dry, itchy, and irritated.
- Corneal Abrasion: Wearing contacts while sleeping can also lead to corneal abrasions, scratches, or scrapes on the cornea. These abrasions can be painful and cause redness, light sensitivity, and even vision problems.
- Corneal Ulcers: Sleeping with contacts increases the risk of corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the cornea. These ulcers can be caused by infections, trauma, or other irritants and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision loss.
- Contact Lens Acute Red Eye (CLARE): This condition is an inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva due to overnight contact lens wear. Symptoms include redness, discomfort, and light sensitivity.
How Does Sleeping in Contacts Raise Your Risk of Infection?
Sleeping with contact lenses increases your risk of infection because the lenses create a barrier between the surface of your eye and the oxygen-rich environment around it. When you’re sleeping, your eyes receive less oxygen than when you’re awake. The combination of reduced oxygen and the contact lens can lead to hypoxia, where the cornea is deprived of oxygen. This can weaken the immune system of the cornea and make it more susceptible to infection.
Another factor that raises the risk of infection is that contact lenses can trap bacteria, viruses, and fungi between the lens and the eye. These microbes can grow and multiply, leading to an increased risk of infection. Additionally, contact lenses can cause small scratches or abrasions on the eye’s surface, making it more vulnerable to infection.
When you’re awake, you blink regularly, which helps remove debris and other irritants from the eye’s surface. However, when you’re asleep, you don’t blink as often, which can lead to a buildup of debris and bacteria on the lens and the eye’s surface.
Accidental Overnight Use: What Happens If You Accidentally Sleep With Contacts In?
If you realize that you’ve accidentally slept with your contacts, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize potential risks. First, remove the lenses from your eyes as soon as you wake up. If you’re experiencing any pain, redness, or irritation, avoid reinserting the contacts and reach out to your eye care professional for advice. Make sure to clean and disinfect your contact lenses before using them again.
Prevention and Best Practices for Contact Lens Wearers
The best way to avoid the risks associated with sleeping with contacts is to follow the recommended wear and care guidelines provided by your eye care professional. Here are some general best practices to ensure proper contact lens care:
- Remove your contact lenses before sleeping, even for short naps.
- Follow the recommended wear schedule for your specific type of contact lenses, replacing them as directed.
- Practice good hand hygiene, always washing and drying your hands before handling contact lenses.
- Clean and store your lenses in the appropriate contact lens solution, following the instructions on the solution bottle.
- Regularly replace your contact lens case to prevent the growth of bacteria.
In some cases, your eye care professional may prescribe extended-wear contact lenses specifically designed for overnight wear. These lenses are made from a more permeable material, allowing more oxygen to reach the cornea while you sleep. Even so, it’s essential to follow the guidelines provided by your eye care professional and only wear these lenses overnight if explicitly recommended doing so.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining eye health, especially when wearing contact lenses. During these exams, your eye care professional will check for any changes in your vision, assess the fit of your contact lenses, and evaluate your overall eye health. You can prevent more serious complications from developing by catching potential issues early.
Know the Signs of Trouble
Awareness of the signs of potential complications related to contact lens use is crucial. If you experience any of the following symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional:
- Redness or swelling in or around the eyes
- Pain or discomfort in the eyes
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Blurred or reduced vision
- Light sensitivity
In Conclusion
Sleeping with contacts poses risks to your eye health and vision, so it’s best to avoid doing so. By following the recommended care guidelines and seeking regular eye exams, you can protect your eyes and enjoy the benefits of contact lens wear. Always be aware of the signs of potential complications, and reach out to your eye care professional if you experience any issues. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your eye health.