Contact lenses offer a popular and effective way to correct vision. Many wearers wonder about the safety of sleeping in them. Understanding the implications for eye health is important for anyone considering this practice.
The Dangers of Overnight Contact Lens Wear
Wearing contact lenses overnight significantly increases the risk of eye health complications. Eye care professionals generally advise against sleeping in most types of contact lenses due to the potential for serious infections and damage. This practice can elevate the risk of eye infection by six to eight times compared to removing lenses before sleep. Even short naps while wearing contacts can lead to irritation or infection.
Specific Eye Health Complications
Sleeping in contact lenses can lead to several specific eye conditions. Microbial keratitis, a severe corneal infection, is a primary concern, often caused by bacteria, fungi, or amoebas. This condition can result in inflammation, pain, and potentially permanent vision impairment or loss if not treated promptly.
Another complication is corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the cornea and can be very painful. Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, involves inflammation of the conjunctiva. Additionally, giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) can develop, characterized by inflammation on the inner surface of the eyelid, often due to protein deposits on the lenses.
Understanding the Underlying Causes
Sleeping in contact lenses poses a risk primarily due to reduced oxygen supply to the cornea. The cornea needs oxygen from the air to remain healthy, but contact lenses act as a barrier, especially when eyelids are closed during sleep. This oxygen deprivation can damage corneal cells and hinder their regeneration. Lenses can also trap debris, microorganisms, and bacteria against the eye, creating an environment conducive to their multiplication. Friction and irritation from the lens, particularly when dry, can contribute to abrasions or damage, making the eye more vulnerable to infection.
When Overnight Wear is Considered and What to Do
Some contact lenses are specifically designed for extended or continuous wear, allowing them to be worn overnight for several days or even up to a month. These extended wear lenses are typically made from silicone hydrogel, a material that allows more oxygen to reach the eye compared to conventional hydrogel lenses. Despite their design, eye care professionals often advise limiting frequent overnight wear even with these specialized lenses due to the still elevated risk of infection compared to daily removal.
If you accidentally fall asleep with standard contact lenses, do not remove them immediately if your eyes feel dry or sticky, as this could cause further irritation or damage. Instead, apply a few rewetting drops or saline solution and blink to rehydrate the lenses and eyes, making removal safer. If any discomfort, redness, blurred vision, or light sensitivity persists after removal, seek professional medical advice.