Why Can’t We Sleep With Contact Lenses?

YIf you’ve ever dozed off with your contact lenses in, you’re not alone. It happens more often than you’d think. But did you know that sleeping in your contacts—especially if they’re not approved for overnight use—can seriously harm your eyes? Let’s break down why eye care professionals constantly remind us: don’t sleep in your contacts.

What Happens When You Sleep in Contacts?

Your eyes need oxygen just like the rest of your body. When you’re awake, blinking and exposed to air, your eyes get a healthy dose. But contact lenses can limit that oxygen flow. While you’re asleep, the reduced tear exchange and closed eyelids make it even harder for your eyes to “breathe.” This lack of oxygen can lead to complications.

Risks of Sleeping in Contact Lenses

Here are the main reasons why it’s a bad idea:

1. Increased Risk of Eye Infections

Sleeping in contacts significantly raises your risk of developing an eye infection, especially microbial keratitis, a painful condition caused by bacteria. Your eyes become more vulnerable to germs when lenses sit in place for too long.

2. Corneal Ulcers

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on your cornea—the clear front surface of your eye. It can be extremely painful and, if untreated, may lead to permanent vision damage or even blindness.

3. Dryness and Irritation

Wearing contacts overnight can dry your eyes out, leaving them red, gritty, and irritated when you wake up. This discomfort often leads to rubbing your eyes, which can worsen any irritation or introduce more bacteria.

4. Reduced Vision

Over time, poor habits like sleeping in contacts can result in chronic eye issues, reduced clarity, and discomfort that makes it hard to keep wearing lenses comfortably.

Are There Any Contacts Safe for Sleeping?

Some contact lenses are FDA-approved for overnight wear—these are usually made of materials that allow higher oxygen permeability. But even with these, risks still exist, and they should only be worn overnight under a doctor’s supervision.

What Should You Do If You Accidentally Sleep in Your Contacts?

First, don’t panic. When you wake up:

• Avoid removing the lenses immediately. Give your eyes a few minutes to rehydrate with artificial tears or lubricating eye drops.

• Remove them gently. Once they feel less dry, take the contacts out carefully.

• Watch for symptoms. Redness, pain, blurred vision, or discharge may be signs of an infection. If you notice anything unusual, see an eye doctor right away.

Final Thoughts

Sleeping in your contact lenses might seem harmless, especially if you’ve done it before without issues. But the risks can sneak up on you—and they’re not worth it. Your eyes are delicate and deserve proper care. Always remove your lenses before bed unless your eye doctor has given you specific instructions otherwise. A few extra seconds before sleep can save your vision in the long run.