Can You Sleep with Contacts In?
After a long day, it’s easy to forget to take your contacts out before bed. But can you sleep with contacts in, and is it really that bad?
Here’s what happens when you do, the risks involved and what to do if you accidentally fall asleep with your lenses on.
Is It Bad to Sleep with Contacts In?
In short, yes, it is bad to sleep with contacts in.
When you wear contacts, your eyes get less oxygen. When you sleep with your eyes closed, they get even less. Without enough oxygen, your eyes can become dry, red and more prone to infection and inflammation.
Even if your eyes and lenses feel fine in the morning, sleeping with contacts can slowly harm your eyes over time.
What Happens If You Fall Asleep with Contacts? Risks of Sleeping with Contacts In
If you fall asleep with contacts in, don’t panic! It happens to almost everyone at some point. But it’s important to understand what’s going on behind your eyelids.
When you’re sleeping, contact lenses trap bacteria and debris on the surface of your eyes. Without proper care (like removing them and keeping them clean), those germs can grow. This can cause:
- Eye infections (like pink eye)
- Corneal ulcers (painful sores on the eye)
- Redness or burning
- Blurry or hazy vision
Even falling asleep with contacts once or taking a short nap can make your eyes feel dry or irritated. And sleeping in contacts regularly can increase your risk of long-term damage. If you think you might doze off, take your contacts out first. Your eyes will thank you later!
Can You Sleep in Daily, Monthly, or Colored Contacts? Understanding Extended Wear Contact Lenses
You shouldn’t sleep with contact lenses in because most aren’t made for overnight use. Some types may be okay to wear while sleeping, but only if your eye doctor says it’s safe.
- Daily contacts: Never sleep in these. They’re thin and meant for single-day use.
- Monthly contacts: Some monthly replacement lenses are approved for longer duration prior to replacement , but only under a doctor’s direction.
- Colored contacts: These should never be worn overnight. The pigment can further block oxygen and increase your risk of infection.
- Extended wear contacts are special lenses made from materials that let more oxygen reach your eyes. Some brands can be worn for up to 6 nights or even 30 days straight. However, even with extended wear contact lenses, it’s still safer to remove them at night when possible.
If you’re unsure whether your lenses are safe for sleep, check the box or ask your eye doctor.
What To Do If You Accidentally Sleep with Contacts In
If you wake up and realize you slept in your contacts, follow these steps:
- Don’t pull them out right away. Your eyes are likely dry. Blink a few times or add lubricating eye drops to moisten them first.
- Gently remove the contacts.
- Trade your contacts for glasses to give your eyes a break for at least 24 hours.
- Watch for redness, pain or light sensitivity.
- If your eyes feel irritated or your vision is blurry, see your eye doctor to check for infection or scratches.
How To Prevent Problems When Sleeping in Contacts
Here’s how to keep your eyes healthy and avoid contact lens issues:
- Switch to extended wear contacts only if your eye doctor recommends them.
- Always wash your hands before touching your eyes.
- Replace your lenses on schedule.
- Keep backup glasses handy in case your eyes need a rest.
- Go for regular eye exams to make sure your lenses fit properly and your eyes stay healthy.
Overall, sleeping in your contacts may seem harmless, but it’s not worth the risk. Make it a habit to remove your contacts before bed, and if you often fall asleep with them in, ask your eye doctor about safer lens options.
FAQs About Sleeping with Contacts
Can you sleep with your contacts in?
No. It cuts off oxygen and increases your risk of infection.
How long can you sleep with contacts before damage occurs?
Even one night can cause irritation or infection.
What happens if you accidentally fall asleep in contacts?
Your eyes may feel dry, red or sore. Remove your contacts, use lubricating drops and rest your eyes.
Is it bad to nap with contacts in?
Yes. Even short naps can reduce oxygen and make your eyes uncomfortable.
Can you sleep in daily disposable contacts?
No. Daily contacts are for one-time use only and not for overnight wear
Can you sleep in monthly contacts?
Only if your lenses are labeled for extended wear and you have approval from your eye doctor.
Can you sleep in colored contacts?
Never. They block greater oxygen transmission and raise your risk of infection and inflammation.
What are extended wear contacts and are they safe?
They allow more oxygen to pass through the lens and can be worn overnight.
What should I do if I slept in my contacts overnight?
Remove them carefully, use rewetting drops and rest your eyes. See an eye doctor if you have pain, redness or blurred vision.
What are the risks of sleeping with contacts?
Eye infections, ulcers, swelling and permanent vision damage if infections go untreated.
