Contacts are standard in the United States, with more than 42.2 million people sporting the lenses for many reasons. For some people, wearing contacts feels more comfortable than wearing glasses, and they swear they can see better while wearing their contacts.
However, many who use contacts are unaware of the danger of sleeping in them. So, can you sleep in contacts, and what will happen if you do?
Well, we’re here to answer that question and more. Keep on reading to find out how wearing your contacts too much can be bad for you.
Can You Sleep in Contacts?
Contacts should only rest on the surface of your eye and not come into contact with your eyelid. When you sleep with your contacts in, your eyes do not have the opportunity to blink, which can cause the contacts to dry out and irritate your eyes. In extreme cases, sleeping in contacts can lead to corneal ulcers and open sores on your eye.
People with dry eyes or specific vision problems are more at risk of developing corneal ulcers. If you do choose to sleep in contacts, be sure to clean your eyes and your contacts before going to bed.
The Types of Contacts You Can Sleep In
If sleeping with contacts is unavoidable, choosing a comfortable pair that won’t irritate your eyes is essential. Soft lenses made of silicone or gel-like materials are the most common and most comfortable type of lenses. They are also the safest to sleep in because they conform to the shape of your eye and don’t dry out.
Another option is gas-permeable lenses, which are less common but may be a good choice for people with certain eye conditions. These lenses are made of stiffer materials, can dry out your eyes, and are less comfortable to sleep in.
How to Prevent Eye Infection After Sleeping with Eye Contacts
Sleeping in contact lenses can increase your risk of developing a severe eye infection. To help prevent this, always clean your lenses before going to bed and remove them before sleep.
If you wear disposable contact lenses, you should never sleep in them. It is vital to replace them as often as your optometrist recommends, as wearing them for too long can increase the risk of eye irritation.
If you must sleep in your lenses, be sure to clean them thoroughly the following day. Always wash your hands before touching your eyes or lenses.
When To Consult an Eye Doctor
If you wake up with red, swollen eyes, it’s a good idea to consult an eye doctor immediately. There are many factors to consider, including the type of lenses you wear, the health of your eyes, and your sleeping habits. Visit btowneyecare.com for more info on eye care and getting the proper treatment for your eye problems.
Make Sure to Take Care of Your Eyes
There is no definitive answer to whether you can sleep in your contacts. However, it is generally not recommended by eye care professionals. Contact lenses should only be worn for a certain amount of time during the day, and sleeping in them can increase the risk of eye infections and other complications.
If you ask, “can you sleep in contacts,” make sure to clean them and your eyes thoroughly. Don’t forget to consult your eye doctor first for contacts you can leave overnight.
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