if this matter has only occurred once or twice extensive damage is unlikely. you should take your lenses out immediately, use eye drops, and let your eyes rest for a while if you accidentally sleep with your contacts. stay with us as we answer your question “What should I do if I accidentally sleep with my contact lenses?”
Is it safe to sleep with contacts?
Sleeping with contact lenses is generally not considered safe, as it can harm your eye health. Contact lenses act as a barrier that can reduce oxygen flow to the cornea, leading to potential complications like corneal swelling (edema), corneal neovascularization, dryness, and discomfort. The lack of oxygen during sleep can also increase the likelihood of eye infections, as bacteria and debris may accumulate between the lens and the eye. While there are specialized types of contact lenses designed for extended or overnight wear, it is vital to follow your eye care professional’s guidance on their safe use. To minimize the risk of complications, it is recommended to remove your contact lenses before sleeping to allow your eyes to breathe, maintain proper hydration, and mitigate the potential for long-term issues associated with prolonged contact lens wear. Prioritizing good eye hygiene and adhering to prescribed wear schedules can help safeguard your eye health and ensure optimal comfort while wearing contact lenses.
What happens if I sleep with my contacts in?
Sleeping with your contacts in can lead to various eye health complications. The most immediate risk is corneal oxygen deprivation, as contact lenses act as a barrier that restricts the amount of oxygen reaching the eye during sleep. This can result in corneal edema, where the cornea swells due to fluid retention, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Prolonged contact lens wear while sleeping also increases the risk of corneal neovascularization, where new blood vessels grow on the cornea, impacting vision clarity and eye health. Additionally, sleeping with contacts raises the likelihood of dry eyes, corneal abrasions, and a higher susceptibility to eye infections like conjunctivitis or microbial keratitis due to bacterial buildup. To preserve your eye health and prevent complications, it is essential to remove your contact lenses before sleeping to allow your eyes to breathe, lower the risk of infections, and maintain optimal eye comfort and hygiene.
What should I do if I accidentally sleep with my contact lenses?
If you accidentally fall asleep with your contact lenses in, it is important to take immediate steps to safeguard your eye health. Upon waking, remove the contact lenses promptly to allow your eyes to receive an adequate oxygen supply and reduce the risk of complications. Even if you do not experience immediate discomfort, it is crucial to take out the lenses to prevent potential issues. If your eyes feel dry, irritated, or uncomfortable after sleeping with contacts, refrain from wearing them until your eyes feel normal again. Use lubricating eye drops recommended by your eye care professional to alleviate dryness and discomfort. It is advisable to wait until your eyes are adequately rested, hydrated, and comfortable before putting in contact lenses again. If you face persistent discomfort, redness, blurred vision, or other concerning symptoms, seek advice from an eye care professional for evaluation and appropriate guidance to ensure the health and safety of your eyes.
Remember, the health of your eyes is paramount, so it’s essential to be mindful of how you care for your contact lenses and prioritize good eye hygiene and comfort to prevent any unnecessary risks to your vision and eye health.
