Leaving contact lenses in the eye longer than recommended is a common concern. This can occur from leaving them in overnight, extending wear beyond the prescribed duration, or simply forgetting to remove them. Proper use is important to maintain eye health.
Addressing Common Worries
A frequent worry is that a lens might become “lost behind the eye” or migrate to the brain. This is a myth, as the eye’s anatomy prevents it. The conjunctiva, a membrane covering the white part of the eye and lining the eyelids, creates a continuous barrier. This makes it impossible for a contact lens to slip behind the eyeball. While a lens can shift or fold under an eyelid, it always remains on the front surface of the eye, accessible for removal.
Immediate Discomfort and Signs
If a contact lens remains in the eye too long, immediate symptoms often develop. Individuals may experience dryness, irritation, or a foreign body sensation. The eye may also appear red, and vision might become slightly blurry. These sensations are usually the initial indicators that lenses have been overworn or improperly used.
Understanding Potential Risks
Prolonged contact lens wear carries several potential complications due to reduced oxygen supply to the cornea and increased bacterial buildup. One risk is a corneal abrasion, a scratch on the cornea’s outermost protective layer. Abrasions can result from a dry or improperly fitted lens. If unaddressed, these scratches can allow bacteria to enter, potentially leading to a corneal ulcer, an open sore on the cornea.
Corneal ulcers can result from bacterial infections, with contact lens wear being a significant risk factor, especially with poor hygiene or extended wear. Bacterial keratitis, a corneal infection, is a complication that can cause vision loss. This condition is often associated with sleeping in lenses or inadequate disinfection. Conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye, is another concern. It can manifest as redness, itching, and discharge, often stemming from bacterial buildup or an allergic reaction to lens deposits.
A lack of oxygen to the cornea, known as hypoxia, can lead to corneal neovascularization, where new, abnormal blood vessels grow into the normally clear cornea. These vessels are fragile and can impair vision if they interfere with light. Long-term overwear can also lead to chronic inflammation and changes in the cornea’s shape, potentially causing contact lens intolerance and affecting vision stability.
What to Do Next
If a contact lens causes discomfort from being left in too long, gently attempt removal. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the eye to prevent introducing bacteria. Applying rewetting drops can help rehydrate the lens, making it easier to move and remove. If the lens has shifted, gently massaging the eyelid with the eye closed might help reposition it.
After successful removal, give the eyes a break from contact lenses. Wearing glasses for a period allows the eyes to recover and receive adequate oxygen. Seek professional medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. Signs such as severe or persistent pain, significant redness, changes in vision, or any discharge from the eye warrant immediate consultation with an eye care professional. These symptoms could indicate an infection or other complication requiring prompt treatment.
Preventing Future Incidents
To avoid leaving contact lenses in too long, adhere to recommended wear schedules. Daily wear lenses should be removed every night. Extended wear lenses should only be worn overnight if specifically approved by an eye care professional. Proper hygiene is also important, including washing hands before handling lenses and using fresh, unexpired solution for cleaning and storage.
Replacing lenses as prescribed (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly) prevents deposit buildup and reduces infection risk. Never sleep in lenses unless explicitly advised by an eye doctor for a specific lens type; this significantly lowers the risk of complications. Regular check-ups with an eye care professional ensure contact lens wear remains safe and appropriate for individual eye health.