When you wear contact lenses on a daily basis, it’s easy to establish habits that can be detrimental to your vision. One habit that eye doctors encourage all patients to avoid is sleeping with your lenses on. While it’s common to forget to remove contacts after a long, exhausting day, this practice should be avoided. Here’s a guide to why sleeping with your lenses on is a bad idea. 

Why Contact Lenses Should Be Removed Before Bed

What Are the Disadvantages of Sleeping in Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are composed of plastic. While contacts may seem thin and fragile in your hand, they can cause damage to your cornea. Through extended wear, you can prevent proper oxygen flow to your cornea which can alter your eye’s general physiology and cause infections that can lead to blindness. In addition, contact lenses can carry bacteria, germs, and tiny pieces of debris that irritate your eye. By wearing dirty lenses 24 hours a day, you’re more susceptible to keratitis or corneal inflammation. In fact, a recent study showed that individuals who sleep in contact lenses are nearly seven times more likely to get keratitis, so protect your eyes by removing them at night.

What Advice Do Eye Doctors Give Patients Who Wear Contact Lenses?

Eye doctors often remind patients who wear contact lenses to be prepared. Carry solution and a contact case with you at all times, so that it’s easy to remove your lenses when you go to sleep. It’s also important to have a pair of prescription glasses so that you can give your eyes a break from contact lenses. If your eyes are red, dry, or irritated after a night or two of accidentally wearing lenses to bed, you should schedule an eye exam. Also, don’t forget to schedule annual appointments, even if you’re symptom-free. 

Do you need an eye exam? Comprehensive Eye Care, LTD., led by Dr. Korenfeld and Dr. Tuttle, has established a positive reputation throughout Franklin County, MO, for providing patients of all ages with top-notch vision care. If you’re looking for a friendly, professional eye doctor that embraces the latest technological advancements to fit patients for contact lenses, treat eye infections, and perform general eye exams, call their practice at (636) 390-3999 to schedule an appointment. Visit their website to learn more about their clinic and commitment to individualized care.