No, it is generally not recommended to sleep while wearing contact lenses, even those specifically approved for overnight or extended wear, due to significant health risks.
Understanding Overnight Contact Lens Wear
Sleeping with contact lenses in is a surprisingly common habit among both teenage and adult lens wearers. While it might seem convenient, this practice significantly increases your risk of developing serious eye infections and other complications.
Why Sleeping in Lenses Is Not Recommended
The primary concern with wearing lenses overnight is the increased risk of infection. When you sleep with contacts in, your eyes receive less oxygen, and tears cannot effectively wash away debris and bacteria. This creates a breeding ground for microorganisms, making your eyes more vulnerable.
- Increased Risk of Infection: Unfortunately, sleeping with contacts in is a common behavior. Sleeping in your lenses occasionally, or by accident, can increase your risk of infection.
- Expert Recommendations: Researchers even recommend against sleeping in lenses that are approved for overnight or extended wear (as of December 22, 2023). This strong recommendation highlights that convenience should not override eye health and safety.
Researcher Recommendations on Overnight Wear
To clarify the expert stance, here's a breakdown of recommendations regarding different types of contact lens wear:
| Type of Lens Wear | Researcher Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Standard Daily Wear Lenses | Strongly discouraged for overnight wear. These lenses are not designed for extended use and pose a high risk of infection if worn while sleeping. |
| Lenses Approved for Overnight/Extended Wear | Recommended against sleeping in, despite their approval for extended use. Research indicates an increased risk of infection even with these specialized lenses. |
The Dangers of Neglecting Lens Care
Wearing lenses at night can lead to various complications, including:
- Corneal Ulcers: Open sores on the cornea, which can be extremely painful and lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Inflammation or infection of the outer membrane of the eyeball and the inner eyelid.
- Reduced Oxygen to the Cornea: This can lead to swelling, blurred vision, and in severe cases, the growth of new, fragile blood vessels into the cornea (neovascularization), which can impair vision.
Always prioritize proper contact lens hygiene and follow your eye care professional's specific instructions. When in doubt, it is always safest to remove your contact lenses before going to sleep.
