Sleeping with Contacts In: Is It Safe?
Have you ever fallen asleep with your contact lenses in? Perhaps after a long, tiring day, removing them before bed seems like too much of a hassle. However, sleeping with contacts in can have serious consequences for your eye health. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of sleeping with contacts in and provide tips on how to properly care for your lenses before bedtime. We’ll also explore alternative options for those who prefer not to sleep with contacts in.
The Pros and Cons of Sleeping with Contacts In
There are certainly benefits to sleeping with contacts in – after all, you can wake up with clear vision and skip the hassle of putting them in the next morning. However, the drawbacks can outweigh the conveniences. Sleeping with contacts in can increase the risk of eye irritation, infection, and other complications. Let’s take a closer look at both sides of the argument.
Some advantages of sleeping with contacts in include:
- Convenience: You don’t have to worry about putting them in again the next morning
- Clear vision upon waking up: You can see immediately upon opening your eyes
- Avoidance of glasses: For those who find them uncomfortable or unflattering
However, there are also disadvantages to sleeping with contacts in, such as:
- Eye irritation: Lenses can dry out and cause discomfort
- Risk of infection: Sleeping with contacts in increases the risk of infections like conjunctivitis and keratitis
- Reduced oxygen supply: Contacts can block the flow of oxygen to your eyes during the night resulting in hypoxic eye damage
Why Sleeping with Contacts In Could Be Harmful to Your Eyes
The downsides of sleeping with contacts in are not just minor inconveniences – they can be serious threats to your eye health. For example, reducing the amount of oxygen getting to your eyes can cause swelling and damage to the cornea. Additionally, wearing contacts for extended periods of time increases the risk of bacteria buildup on the lenses, which can cause infections. In severe cases, the damage caused by sleeping with contacts in can reduce vision permanently or lead to blindness.
It should be noted that the risks are not the same for all types of contact lenses. Extended wear lenses can be left in for several consecutive nights, but daily wear lenses should always be removed before bed. It’s important to consult with your eye doctor to determine what type of contact lenses are best for you and how long you can safely wear them.
How to Properly Care for Your Contacts Before Bedtime
If you do opt to sleep with your contacts in, it’s crucial to take extra steps to ensure their safety and longevity. Follow these instructions to care for your lenses before bed:
- Wash your hands with soap and water before you handle your lenses
- Remove your contacts, rinse them with lens solution, and rub them gently to remove debris
- Store your contacts in a clean case with fresh solution
- Replace your contact lens case every three months (or immediately after an eye infection)
It may be tempting to reuse yesterday’s solution or skip a step, but these habits can increase the risk of bacterial buildup and infection. It’s essential to follow the instructions on your contact lens solution and case for the most effective cleaning.
A Beginner’s Guide to Sleeping with Contacts In
If you’re new to the idea of sleeping with contacts in, there are a few things you should know. First, as we previously mentioned, make sure you’re using the right kind of contact lens for extended wear. Second, consider using hydrating drops to keep your eyes lubricated throughout the night. And finally, always consult with your eye doctor before making any changes to your contact lens routine. What works for some may not work for others.
Alternative Options for a Comfortable Night’s Sleep Without Contacts
If you’re uncomfortable with the risks of sleeping with contacts in, know that there are alternatives to consider. Prescription glasses can be a stylish and comfortable option for those who don’t want contacts. There’s also the option of undergoing LASIK surgery to improve vision permanently. However, both glasses and surgery aren’t without their drawbacks – glasses can be cumbersome and prone to breakage, while surgery can be expensive and require a long recovery period.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to sleep with contacts in rests with you. However, we hope this article has shed some light on the potential risks and provided tips on how to properly care for your lenses. Remember to prioritize your eye health and consult with your eye doctor if you’re ever in doubt. By following these best practices, you can enjoy clear vision and a comfortable night’s sleep.