Why Sleeping in Contact Lenses is Risky: 5 Essential Dos and Don’ts

Contact lenses offer the convenience of not wearing spectacles and can boost confidence for many users. However, proper lens care is crucial to prevent potential eye health issues. Recently, Indian TV actress Jasmine Bhasin suffered corneal damage from wearing contact lenses, highlighting the importance of maintaining proper contact lens hygiene.

One of the most critical rules is to never sleep with contact lenses on.

What Happens When You Sleep With Contact Lenses?

Sleeping with contact lenses can be harmful to your eyes. When your eyes are closed, the lenses restrict oxygen flow to the cornea, which can lead to several complications:

• Corneal Edema: Oxygen deprivation can cause the cornea to swell and become inflamed, potentially damaging corneal tissue and impairing vision.
• Infection Risk: The lack of oxygen and the warm, moist environment of the eye can promote bacterial growth on the lenses, leading to infectious keratitis, a serious eye infection that can threaten your sight.

5 Dos and Don’ts of Contact Lens Wear

Dos:

1. Remove Lenses Before Sleeping: Always take out your contact lenses before going to bed, even for a short nap. Allowing your eyes to rest from the lenses is crucial for maintaining eye health.
2. Clean and Store Properly: Follow the cleaning and disinfection guidelines provided by your eye care professional or lens manufacturer. Proper lens care minimizes the risk of bacterial growth and infections.
3. Maintain Lens Hygiene: Wash your hands before handling lenses and ensure that your lenses are cleaned and stored in a hygienic manner.
4. Attend Regular Eye Exams: Schedule routine check-ups with your optometrist or ophthalmologist to ensure that your contact lenses fit well and remain suitable for your eyes.
5. Listen to Your Eyes: If you experience discomfort, redness, or changes in vision while wearing contacts, remove them immediately and consult your eye care provider.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Sleep in Contacts: Avoid sleeping with your contact lenses in, even if they are labeled for extended wear. This practice can significantly impact your eye health.
2. Don’t Use Expired or Damaged Lenses: Always check the expiration date on your contact lenses and discard any that are past their recommended use or show signs of damage.
3. Don’t Swim or Shower with Lenses: Avoid exposing your lenses to water, as it can harbor harmful microorganisms that can cause infections.
4. Don’t Share Lenses: Contact lenses are personal items and should never be shared to prevent the spread of infections.
5. Don’t Neglect Lens Case Hygiene: Regularly clean and replace your contact lens case according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid bacterial growth.

By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while prioritizing the health and safety of your eyes. Proper care and hygiene are key to maintaining clear, comfortable vision and preventing potential complications.