Wearing contact lenses to bed may seem harmless, but it can significantly jeopardize your eye health. Contacts naturally limit the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes, particularly the cornea—the clear, protective layer over the eye. While you’re awake, blinking and exposure to air help maintain adequate oxygen flow. However, when you sleep with contacts in, your closed eyelids further restrict oxygen supply. This lack of oxygen weakens the eye’s natural defenses and increases your susceptibility to infections.
One of the most concerning risks is microbial keratitis, an infection that inflames the cornea. While bacteria are the most common culprits, microbial keratitis can also result from fungal, viral, or parasitic infections. In severe cases, this infection can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Research shows that the risk of microbial keratitis skyrockets when contact lenses are worn overnight, as bacteria and other pathogens can thrive under the lens's warm, moist environment.
Even if you only sleep in your lenses occasionally or accidentally, you still increase your risk of infection. Many eye doctors caution against lenses marketed for continuous or extended wear for this reason, as they also raise the risk of serious eye infections.
What Happens When You Sleep in Contacts?
Falling asleep with your contact lenses in might seem like a small slip-up, but it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms almost immediately. You might wake up with red, irritated eyes, blurry vision, or a nagging soreness. These symptoms occur because your eyes aren’t getting enough oxygen while you sleep. Without sufficient oxygen, the cells in your cornea, the eye’s clear, protective layer, can’t function properly. This leads to a condition known as hypoxia—oxygen deprivation—that affects the health of your eyes.
When your cornea is deprived of oxygen, it becomes swollen, weakening its natural defenses. This low-oxygen environment also encourages bacteria to flourish, making your eyes vulnerable to infections. Bacterial keratitis, one of the most common infections linked to overnight contact use, can be triggered by bacteria on your lenses, fingers, or even the storage case. People who rinse their lenses in tap water instead of contact solution face an increased risk, as tap water can introduce bacteria directly to the eye.
In some cases, other types of infections like fungal keratitis can also develop. Although fungal infections are more prevalent in tropical regions, they can happen anywhere. Studies reveal that contact lens wearers who sleep in their lenses are at a higher risk for both bacterial and fungal keratitis, both of which can lead to corneal damage and, potentially, vision loss if left untreated.
One study reported that people who wear contact lenses overnight are up to eight times more likely to develop corneal infections than those who remove their lenses before sleep. These infections are not only painful but can also cause long-term vision problems.
The Risks of Sleeping with Contacts
Sleeping with contact lenses can lead to serious long-term risks that go beyond immediate discomfort. While you might feel symptoms like blurry vision, eye pain, or unusual redness initially, continuing this habit can expose your eyes to lasting damage. Contact lens wear overnight restricts the oxygen supply to your cornea, which weakens the eye’s natural defenses, creating a welcoming environment for infections like keratitis and corneal ulcers. These infections, if untreated, can cause scarring on the cornea and, in severe cases, lead to permanent vision loss.
A contact lens-related infection often presents itself with symptoms such as swelling, excessive tearing, a burning sensation, or sensitivity to light. You might also notice discharge or feel as if there’s something lodged in your eye. If any of these signs appear, it’s crucial to see an eye doctor immediately, as infections like keratitis can quickly progress. Without prompt treatment, keratitis can damage the cornea permanently, impairing vision and potentially requiring a corneal transplant.
Beyond microbial keratitis, other risks accompany the habit of sleeping in contacts. For instance, there’s a heightened risk of developing conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, as well as corneal ulcers, corneal hypoxia, and chronic dry eyes. Corneal ulcers are open sores on the cornea that can be extremely painful and difficult to treat, often requiring extensive medical intervention to prevent vision loss.
Additionally, the lack of oxygen from wearing contacts overnight can make your eyes prone to irritation and inflammation. If any debris is trapped beneath the lens, it could scratch your cornea, leading to further complications. Some users wake up with dry, red, or sore eyes, which can make them more vulnerable to infections over time.
How to Treat Your Eyes After Sleeping in Contacts
If you accidentally fall asleep with your contact lenses in, it’s essential to take immediate steps to protect your eyes from further discomfort or infection. Here’s how to safely remove your lenses, soothe your eyes, and know when to seek professional care.
1. Remove Contact Lenses Gently
Step 1: Remove your contacts as soon as possible to allow your eyes to breathe and reduce the risk of infection. However, if the lenses feel stuck or uncomfortable, avoid pulling at them, as this can scratch your cornea.
Step 2: Use rewetting drops designed for contact lenses. Apply several drops in each eye, then blink to help loosen the lenses. This should make removal easier and more comfortable.
2. Give Your Eyes a Break
Step 1: After removing your contacts, switch to wearing eyeglasses for at least a day. This break allows your eyes to regain proper oxygen levels and moisture, reducing the chance of further irritation.
Step 2: Monitor your eyes for signs of infection, such as redness, discharge, or a sensation of something in your eye. Resting your eyes without contacts helps you detect any issues sooner.
3. Use Moisturizing Eye Drops
Step 1: Moisturize your eyes with preservative-free artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. These drops can relieve dryness and soothe irritated eyes. Avoid using redness-reducing drops, as they may irritate your eyes further.
Look for artificial tears with ingredients like hyaluronic acid for lasting hydration. Preservative-free options are ideal, especially if you use them frequently.
4. When to Call an Eye Doctor
If you notice any changes in vision, prolonged redness, discomfort, or signs of infection, contact your eye doctor immediately. Early treatment can prevent severe complications, especially if an infection like keratitis has developed.
Tip: If you visit an eye doctor, bring your contact lenses in their storage case. Your doctor can culture the lens to identify potential bacteria or other pathogens, helping them diagnose and treat the issue effectively.
How to Safely Use Contact Lenses
Maintaining eye health while using contact lenses requires consistent care and attention. Following these best practices will help you keep your eyes comfortable, safe, and free from infections.
1. Wash and Dry Hands Thoroughly
Before handling your contacts, always wash your hands with soap and water, and dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. Clean hands prevent bacteria and dirt from transferring to your lenses, reducing the risk of infections.
2. Clean Lenses Daily
Use a proper contact lens solution to clean, rinse, and store your lenses daily. Never use tap water or saliva, as they can introduce harmful microbes that can lead to infections like keratitis.
Rub and rinse your lenses in the solution even if it’s labeled as “no-rub.” This extra step helps remove protein buildup and other residues, keeping lenses fresh and safe.
3. Store Lenses Correctly
Always store your lenses in a clean lens case filled with fresh contact lens solution, replacing the solution daily. Don’t “top off” the old solution, as this can dilute its effectiveness.
Replace your lens case every 1-3 months to prevent bacterial buildup. Ensure that the case is kept clean and dry when not in use.
4. Follow the Wearing Schedule
Stick to the recommended wear schedule for your specific type of lenses, whether daily, biweekly, or monthly. Wearing lenses longer than advised can lead to protein deposits, dryness, and reduced oxygen supply to the eyes.
Avoid wearing lenses overnight unless they’re specifically approved for extended wear by your eye doctor. Sleeping in contact lenses greatly increases your risk of infections.
5. Avoid Contact with Water
Remove your lenses before swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. Water, even from tap sources, can carry microorganisms that may adhere to lenses and cause severe infections, including Acanthamoeba keratitis.
6. Give Your Eyes a Break
Wearing contacts for extended periods can lead to dryness and irritation. Take breaks by switching to eyeglasses occasionally, especially if you feel any discomfort, to allow your eyes to “breathe” without the lenses.
Using artificial tears (preservative-free) can help keep your eyes hydrated, especially if you spend long hours in dry environments.
7. Keep Up with Regular Eye Exams
Schedule regular eye check-ups to ensure your prescription is accurate and to catch any early signs of complications from contact lens use. Your eye doctor can also provide specific guidance based on your lifestyle and vision needs.
8. Replace Lenses as Directed
Replace your contacts as recommended by your eye care provider or the product packaging. Old lenses may develop scratches or build-up deposits that irritate the eye and increase infection risk.
9. Never Share Contacts
Sharing contact lenses, including colored or decorative lenses, can transfer bacteria between users, increasing the risk of infections. Your lenses are personal medical devices designed for your specific eye health.
Emergency Steps for Contact Lens Complications
Taking quick and careful action can protect your eye health and prevent potential damage if you experience severe pain, vision issues, or any unusual symptoms while wearing contact lenses. Here’s what to do:
1. Remove Lenses Immediately
Step 1: Take out your contact lenses at the first sign of severe discomfort or vision problems. Leaving lenses in could worsen the issue or delay relief.
Note: If your lenses feel stuck or are hard to remove, apply a few drops of rewetting solution to ease removal. Do not tug or pull forcefully, as this can scratch your cornea.
2. Inspect Your Eyes and Lenses
Check your eyes in a mirror for signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or cloudiness. These symptoms may indicate an infection or irritation that requires attention.
Examine your lenses for tears, debris, or deposits that could have caused the issue. Damaged lenses can scratch or irritate the eye, leading to further complications.
3. Rinse Eyes with Sterile Solution
Use sterile saline solution or preservative-free artificial tears to rinse your eyes. This can help flush out any irritants and may soothe discomfort temporarily. Avoid using tap water or any non-sterile solutions, as they may introduce bacteria.
4. Avoid Further Contact Lens Use
Switch to eyeglasses for at least 24 hours after experiencing symptoms. This rest period allows your eyes to heal and helps prevent further irritation or infection. If symptoms persist or worsen, keep your lenses out until you can see an eye doctor.
5. Monitor for Signs of Infection
Pay close attention to signs such as:
- Persistent redness or swelling
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Eye pain, especially if it worsens
- Sensitivity to light
- A feeling of something stuck in your eye
- Unusual discharge
6. Contact Your Eye Doctor Immediately
Call your eye care professional immediately if you experience severe symptoms that don’t improve within a few hours. Describe your symptoms in detail, and if possible, bring your contact lenses in their storage case. The doctor may examine the lenses to determine if they are the cause of the issue.
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications, such as infections or corneal damage.