Sometimes life gets busy, and you may find yourself dozing off with your contact lenses still in. It happens, and you’re not alone. However, knowing the risks can help you protect your eyes and maintain their health.
Short answer? Sleeping with contact lenses can increase your risk of serious eye problems and should be avoided unless your lenses are specifically designed for overnight wear. If you’re concerned about your eye health, or looking for lenses that can survive the occasional late night, talk to your optometrist about your options.
The Risks of Sleeping with Contact Lenses
Sleeping overnight with contact lenses isn’t as harmless as it may seem. Even though some modern contact lenses are highly breathable, they don’t allow as much oxygen to reach your corneas as the naked eye does.
When your eyes are closed during sleep, that oxygen supply decreases even further, which can lead to hypoxia (oxygen deprivation). But that’s not all—here are some additional risks to consider:
- Eye infections: Infections like keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) become much more likely, with studies showing a 6–8x higher risk when sleeping in contact lenses.
- Dry eyes: Contact lenses can be fairly thirsty, and when they run out of their own moisture, there’s only one place they can get it from—your eyes. Because of this, dry eyes can develop if you wear lenses overnight.
- Bacteria and protein buildup: Contact lenses can pick up a lot of proteins from your tears. That’s one of the reasons wearers need to clean their lenses every night. Buildup on the lenses can increase the risk of redness, swelling, and irritation.
- Corneal ulcers: Extended contact lens wear can cause corneal ulcers, which, if left untreated, may permanently damage vision.
Your eye health is worth taking the extra few seconds to remove your lenses before bed.
How Long Can I Wear Contact Lenses?
The length of time you can safely wear contact lenses depends on the type of lenses and your eye health.
Daily disposable lenses should only be worn once and discarded at the end of the day, while extended-wear lenses are designed for longer use but still require caution. Even if your lenses are approved for overnight wear, consider that more of a “last-case scenario” feature, rather than something you should be doing regularly.
We recommend removing your lenses for cleaning and resting your eyes when you can. Always follow your eye care professional’s instructions and the manufacturer’s guidelines to protect your vision and reduce the risk of complications. When in doubt, it’s better to give your eyes a break!
Can I Nap in Contact Lenses?
Sometimes a quick nap feels irresistible, but napping in contact lenses can still carry some level of risk. While it may not be as dangerous as sleeping overnight, your eyes experience the same reduced oxygen flow and increased potential for bacterial buildup—even during a short rest.
If you know a nap is coming, remove your lenses first. If you’re caught off guard and nap with them in, here are some tips to minimize risks afterward:
- Use preservative-free eye drops to keep your lenses hydrated and avoid irritation.
- Remove your lenses immediately after waking, especially if they feel dry or stuck. Don’t tug—rehydrate them with drops or blink to encourage natural tear production.
- Take a lens-free day to allow your eyes to rest and recover.
- Monitor for symptoms like redness, pain, blurry vision, or light sensitivity. If any of these occur, see your optometrist promptly.
Proactive care can make all the difference.
Tips for Safe Lens Wear and Care
Prevention is key when it comes to eye health. Here are some practical tips to help you wear your contact lenses with confidence while keeping your eyes safe and comfortable.
Choose the Right Lens Type:
Not all lenses are right for all people. Choosing between daily wear and extended wear makes a big difference for your eye health.
- Daily wear lenses are designed for single-day use and should never be reused or worn overnight.
- Extended-wear lenses are approved for overnight use (up to 7 days or even 30 days in some cases), but they still carry higher risks compared to daily lenses. Discuss with your optometrist if extended wear is appropriate for you.
That’s not all! There are also toric contact lenses, rigid lenses, soft lenses, and multifocal lenses depending on your unique needs.
Maintain Proper Lens Hygiene
No matter what type of contact lenses you wear, proper hygiene is critical to prevent infections and discomfort. Here are some tips:
- Wash your hands before handling lenses.
- Clean reusable lenses daily with the recommended solution.
- Replace lens cases every 3 months.
Follow Your Optometrist’s Guidelines
Stick to the wear schedule and recommendations provided by your optometrist. They’ll help you determine the safest and most effective lens care routine for your lifestyle.
Take Breaks When Needed
Even if your contact lenses feel comfortable, taking breaks and wearing glasses occasionally can help prevent overwear and dry eye symptoms.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are an important part of helping your lenses fit properly and keeping your eyes healthy. Your optometrist can diagnose potential problems early and adjust your prescription or lens type if necessary.
Keep Your Eyes Wide Open for Health
Calgary Family Eye Doctors is here to support all your eye care needs. Our team of professionals is committed to helping you find the right contact lenses and providing personalized care to keep your family’s eyes safe and healthy. Don’t wait—book your contact lens exam today and experience the difference passionate eye care can make!
