Introduction:
Contact lenses provide a convenient and effective solution for those with vision problems, but many are unaware of the dangers of sleeping with them in. This blog post will delve into the side effects of sleeping with contact lenses and what you can do to reduce the risk of experiencing them.
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Why sleeping with contact lenses is not recommended:
Sleeping with contact lenses in can restrict the flow of oxygen to your eyes, which can cause a range of problems. It can also increase the risk of infection and irritation, as bacteria and other irritants can accumulate on the surface of your lenses overnight.
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Risks associated with sleeping in contact lenses:
Some of the most common side effects of sleeping with contact lenses include redness and swelling, eye infections, corneal ulcers, and even vision loss in severe cases. In addition, sleeping in contact lenses can increase the risk of developing more serious conditions such as keratitis and endophthalmitis.
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Tips for reducing the risk of side effects:
To reduce the risk of experiencing side effects from sleeping with contact lenses, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and only use lenses that are approved for overnight wear. Additionally, you should clean and disinfect your lenses regularly, avoid wearing them for longer than the recommended duration, and use lubricating drops if your eyes feel dry or uncomfortable.
Practical Tips:
- Only use contact lenses that are approved for overnight wear: Before using contact lenses overnight, it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure they are safe for this type of use. Some contact lenses may not be suitable for overnight wear, and using them in this way can increase the risk of side effects.
- Clean and disinfect your lenses regularly: Regular cleaning and disinfecting of your contact lenses is crucial to reducing the risk of infection and irritation. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting your lenses, and replace them as often as recommended.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses for longer than the recommended duration: Wearing contact lenses for longer than the recommended duration can increase the risk of side effects and lead to eye strain and discomfort. Make sure to remove your lenses as soon as they become uncomfortable or irritating, and give your eyes a break from wearing lenses as often as needed.
- Use lubricating drops if your eyes feel dry or uncomfortable: If you experience dry or uncomfortable eyes while wearing contact lenses, using lubricating drops can help to relieve these symptoms. Make sure to use only eye-safe drops and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
- Practice good hygiene: Good hygiene is essential for reducing the risk of side effects when using contact lenses. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses, and avoid touching your eyes or lenses with dirty hands. Additionally, be sure to replace your lenses case regularly to reduce the risk of bacteria buildup.
Sources:
- American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2020, November 17). Sleeping with Contact Lenses. Retrieved February 07, 2023, from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/sleeping-with-contact-lenses
- Contact Lenses. (2021, March 26). Risks of Sleeping with Contact Lenses. Retrieved February 07, 2023, from https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/risks-of-sleeping-with-contact-lenses
Dr. Delores is expert in child behavior and psychology and has knowledge of various medical domains.
She also has raised her three children and trains many at her clinic. She is lead contributor on our website