Neglecting to remove contact lenses before sleeping, even for short naps, can pose significant risks to eye health, experts warn. The act, though seemingly harmless, may lead to serious eye infections and potential long-term vision issues.
The cornea, which is the eye’s clear front surface, depends on oxygen from the air to maintain its health. Wearing contact lenses throughout the day already reduces the cornea’s oxygen intake, and keeping them on during sleep exacerbates this limitation. This reduced oxygen supply weakens the eye’s natural defense, making it more susceptible to bacterial infections.
One of the most severe risks associated with sleeping in contact lenses is microbial keratitis, a bacterial infection of the cornea. If not addressed promptly, this condition can develop into a painful corneal ulcer, leading to permanent scarring and potentially lasting vision loss. Experts emphasize that even occasionally napping with contact lenses in can elevate this risk.
Fortunately, these issues are largely preventable with proper contact lens care. Eye health specialists advise users to remove lenses before sleeping or taking naps, adhere to good lens hygiene practices, and follow the replacement schedule recommended by their eye care providers.
Individuals experiencing symptoms such as redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or sudden eyesight changes should seek medical attention without delay. Swift treatment is crucial to preventing severe damage and safeguarding long-term vision. While contact lenses are generally safe when used correctly, sleeping in them unnecessarily increases the likelihood of preventable eye complications.