We’ve all been there…
You get home after a long day, flop on the couch, and tell yourself you’ll take your contacts out after just one more episode of The White Lotus. Or maybe you’re traveling and realize you forgot your contact case and solution. You think, “It’s just one night—what’s the harm?”
At Optical Expressions, we understand how tempting it can be to skip your contact lens routine when you’re tired or on the go. But here’s the truth: even one night of sleeping in your lenses can cause irritation, infection, and long-term eye damage.
Let’s talk about why it’s risky—and what you can do to keep your eyes safe and healthy.
Why Sleeping in Contacts Is Dangerous
Your eyes rely on oxygen to stay healthy and clear. During the day, oxygen flows freely from the air to your corneas. But when your eyes are closed while you sleep, that oxygen supply naturally decreases—and when contact lenses are still in, oxygen flow drops even more.
This can lead to:
- Corneal Hypoxia
Without enough oxygen, your cornea can swell and become inflamed, causing redness, blurred vision, and discomfort.
- A Higher Risk of Infection
Bacteria love warm, moist, low-oxygen environments—exactly what’s created when you sleep in your contacts. This increases the risk of serious infections such as microbial keratitis or corneal ulcers, both of which can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
- Dryness and Morning Irritation
Ever wake up feeling like your contacts are glued to your eyes? Sleeping in them can dry them out, making them uncomfortable and difficult to remove without causing tiny scratches on your cornea.
- Tiny Tears and Corneal Abrasions
Even gentle rubbing or trying to remove a stuck lens can cause small scratches that allow bacteria to enter your eye.
Real-Life Scenarios Where It’s Tempting to Leave Them In
Let’s be honest—life happens! You might find yourself thinking it’s okay just this once when:
- You fall asleep mid-episode on the couch with your glasses still sitting on the nightstand.
- You forget your contact case while out of town and don’t want to toss your lenses.
- You’re at a sleepover or weekend getaway and don’t have your solution handy.
- You take a quick nap after work that accidentally turns into a few hours.
It might feel harmless in the moment, but these “oops” moments can set the stage for discomfort—or worse, an infection that takes weeks to heal.
“But My Contacts Say Extended Wear!”
Even if your contact lenses are labeled for “overnight” or “extended wear,” they still come with a higher risk. Studies show that people who sleep in contacts—of any type—are up to 6–8 times more likely to develop eye infections compared to those who remove them nightly.
And here’s something important that many patients don’t realize: all extended wear contacts are only approved for up to 6 nights of continuous wear. They should be removed and cleaned at least once a week and left out overnight—even if they’re monthly lenses. At Optical Expressions, we make sure to have that conversation with all our extended wear patients to keep their eyes healthy and protected.
Every person’s eyes are different. Some corneas can handle extended wear better than others, which is why it’s always best to talk with your Optical Expressions optometrist before making overnight lens wear a habit. We’ll help you find a lens and wearing schedule that keeps your eyes comfortable and healthy.
Better Habits for Healthy Eyes
Here’s how to protect your vision and avoid those “I’ll just sleep in them” moments:
- Always remove your lenses before bed, even if you’re just dozing on the couch.
- Keep a backup pair of glasses in your car, bag, or suitcase for travel.
- Use fresh solution every night—never reuse or top off old liquid.
- Replace your lenses as directed (don’t stretch their wear time).
- Schedule regular eye exams to make sure your lenses and eyes stay in sync.
Give Your Eyes a Break
Your eyes deserve rest just as much as you do. Try giving them a few “glasses days” each week to recover and breathe. Not only will your eyes thank you, but it’s also the perfect excuse to show off a great pair of frames!
If you ever wake up with redness, light sensitivity, or pain after sleeping in your lenses, don’t wait it out—remove your contacts immediately and contact Optical Expressions. Our doctors can quickly evaluate your eyes and get you back to comfort and clarity.
We’re Here to Help You See Clearly—and Sleep Soundly
At Optical Expressions, we want your vision to stay as healthy and vibrant as your lifestyle. Whether you need new contact lenses, an updated prescription, or stylish glasses for your next “glasses day,” our team is here to help.
Call us today to schedule your next exam: (602) 224-5772
Or book online
Because great vision starts with great care—every day and every night.
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