Can I Sleep in My Contact Lenses?

Many people are tempted to sleep in their contact lenses, especially if the brand advertises them as safe for overnight wear. It might seem easy to skip the step of lens removal before bed, or maybe you want to keep your lenses in for uninterrupted good vision in case you wake up at night.

But, while it seems easy and harmless, wearing your lenses overnight can be quite the opposite.

At Central Valley Eye Medical Group, Inc., our fellowship-trained and board-certified ophthalmologists work closely with patients to ensure eye health and safety around contact lens use, and we strongly recommend against this practice. Keep reading to learn why.

Why Avoid Sleeping in Contact Lenses?

Leaving your contacts in overnight can lead to several complications, including:

• Increased Infection Risk: Sleeping with contacts restricts oxygen flow to the cornea, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive and potentially cause infections like pink eye.
• Corneal Ulcers: Wearing contacts overnight can result in painful abrasions or even corneal ulcers, which can cause permanent vision damage if left untreated.
• Dry Eyes: Contact lenses absorb moisture from your eyes. Wearing them while sleeping can lead to irritated dry eyes by morning.

Ultimately, it’s not worth the risk to your eye health and vision.

Are There Any Safe Times to Wear Contacts Overnight?

In rare cases, our doctors may advise wearing contact lenses overnight for specific therapeutic purposes. For example, some patients may need custom-made rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses that reshape the corneas at night (orthokeratology or ortho-k).

However, this specialized contact lens therapy only occurs under close medical supervision. Unless your eye doctor at Central Valley Eye Medical Group, Inc. specifically recommends it, avoid leaving your lenses in overnight.

Contact Lens Care Tips

We don’t just tell you what to do (and what not to do); we also provide personalized tips to help you care for your contacts best. Common recommendations include:

• Clean Hands: Wash your hands before removing and storing your lenses. This helps prevent bacteria transfer and ensures your lenses are fresh and ready to use in the morning.
• Use the Right Solution: Our doctors recommend the right contact lens cleaning and storage solutions for your specific lenses.
• Rub and Rinse: Regardless of the type of lenses you have, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a rub and rinse method: Gently rub each lens between your fingers to help dislodge buildup.
• Disinfect Your Case: Remember to disinfect your contact lens case regularly. Clean it thoroughly using your lens solutions and allow it to air dry.
• Replace Lenses: Adhere to the replacement schedule for your lens type. We make it easy to do so with our online contact lens ordering in Manteca and Stockton.

Contact Lenses in Stockton, Manteca, and Modesto, CA

Questions about contact safety? Call Central Valley Eye Medical Group, Inc. at 209-952-3700 to book your appointment in Stockton, Manteca, or Modesto, CA.

Posted in: Contact Lenses