Sleeping In 30-Day Contacts: Is It Safe?

Sleeping in your contact lenses can be tempting, especially if you're feeling tired and can't be bothered with the whole routine of taking them out, cleaning and storing them. But is it safe? The short answer is: it depends. While some contact lenses are approved for extended wear, sleeping in your contacts—especially if they're not designed for overnight use—can increase the risk of eye infections and irritation.

Oxygen Deprivation

The cornea, which is the outermost layer of the eye, relies on receiving oxygen through its exposure to the air. When the cornea doesn't get enough oxygen, a condition called corneal hypoxia occurs. This can happen when wearing standard contact lenses for extended periods, as they cover the entire surface of the cornea, cutting off the oxygen supply. While this is generally fine for a few hours during the day, wearing contact lenses for too long can cause the cornea to start to swell due to the accumulation of lactic acid, which pulls water to it, causing edema.

The initial symptoms of corneal hypoxia may seem like a minor annoyance, but if left untreated, more serious problems can develop, including corneal cysts and the death of epithelial cells, compromising vision. Symptoms of corneal hypoxia include burning pain, scratchiness, irritation, and visible swelling in the outer layer of the cornea.

Contact lenses, particularly older versions made of thin glass, can pose a risk of permanent and painful damage to the eyes due to oxygen deprivation. The arrival of soft lenses and gas-permeable rigid lenses has alleviated this issue to some extent, as these lenses allow air to reach the eyes. However, even with these newer materials, there is still a risk of corneal hypoxia, especially when sleeping with the lenses in.

Sleeping with contact lenses can increase the risk of eye infections and corneal ulcers, which can lead to vision loss or even blindness. Contact lenses can block oxygen flow to the eye and trap dirt and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow unimpeded. This can lead to infections such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, and fungal eye infections, resulting in vision problems and potential vision loss.

Extended-wear contact lenses approved by the FDA for overnight use can be worn for up to a month continuously. However, not everyone's eyes may tolerate this, and it is still recommended to remove these lenses at least once a week to allow the eyes to rest and recover.

Infections

Sleeping in contact lenses can cause eye infections, as bacteria can get trapped under them. The longer you keep them in your eyes, the longer the bacteria can grow unimpeded. Eye infections can range in severity from conjunctivitis (pink eye) to keratitis and fungal eye infections that can lead to vision problems and even potential vision loss.

Contact lens acute red eye (CLARE) and giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) are also risks of sleeping in contacts.

The biggest risk of extended-wear contact lenses is infection, which can lead to blindness. Other risks include corneal neovascularization (where the blood vessels in your eye grow toward your iris in response to a lack of oxygen), inflammation, and irritation.

Even if you use contacts that are approved for overnight use, wearing them to sleep increases the odds of contact-related complications and eye problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that sleeping with your contacts in makes you six to eight times more likely to suffer from a corneal infection.

Dryness and Discomfort

Sleeping in your contact lenses can cause dryness and discomfort. Many contact lenses absorb moisture from your eyes, and wearing them overnight can result in your eyes not being able to produce enough moisture to keep your lenses comfortable. This can lead to dryness, redness, and irritation when you wake up.

Even if you are using lenses that are approved for overnight wear, it is still important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines carefully to ensure safety. Extended wear lenses are made from special materials that allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, but they still require proper care to maintain eye health.

It is worth noting that short naps of an hour or two are generally okay for most people, but if you frequently take naps during the day, it is important to ensure that your lenses are comfortable and that your eyes are getting enough oxygen. If you are using lenses that aren't designed for extended wear, it is recommended to remove them during naps to avoid dryness and irritation.

If you accidentally fall asleep with your contacts in, gently remove them as soon as you wake up. If your eyes feel dry, irritated, or uncomfortable, apply lubricating eye drops or consult your optometrist. It is best to refrain from wearing your lenses again until your eyes have fully recovered.

To prevent dry eyes while wearing contacts, you can use lubricating eye drops as recommended by your optometrist, take regular breaks from staring at screens, and stay hydrated. If dry eyes persist, your eye care provider may suggest a different type of lens or a more suitable cleaning solution.

In summary, sleeping in your contact lenses, especially those not designed for overnight use, can lead to dryness and discomfort. It is important to follow the recommendations of your eye care professional and take proper care of your contact lenses to maintain eye health and comfort.

FDA-Approved Overnight Contacts

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves some contact lenses for extended wear, ranging from one to six nights or up to 30 days of continuous wear. These lenses are designed to be worn while sleeping and can provide a convenient alternative to daily wear contacts or glasses. However, it is important to note that not everyone's eyes may tolerate overnight contact lens wear, and it is recommended to consult an eye doctor for advice.

Air Optix Night & Day Lenses

One example of FDA-approved overnight contact lenses is the Air Optix Night & Day lenses. These lenses are made from a highly oxygen-transmissible material, allowing six times more oxygen to reach the eye than ordinary soft contact lenses. This helps to maintain eye health and reduce the risk of red eyes, which can be a sign of insufficient oxygen to the eyes. The unique molecular structure of the lens allows water and oxygen to pass through, keeping the eyes hydrated and comfortable.

Benefits of Overnight Contacts

Overnight contact lenses offer several benefits to wearers. Firstly, they provide the convenience of not having to insert and remove lenses daily, saving time and hassle. They also offer continuous, clear vision around the clock, which can be especially useful for those with busy or unpredictable schedules. Additionally, these lenses can be more cost-effective, as they are typically replaced monthly rather than daily or weekly.

Precautions and Considerations

While FDA-approved overnight contacts provide a safe option for extended wear, it is important to follow the recommended wearing schedules and replacement guidelines. The FDA recommends removing extended wear contacts at least once a week for one day/night to allow the eyes to rest and recover. Proper lens care, including cleaning and disinfection, is also crucial to maintaining eye health. It is important to note that not all contact lenses are suitable for overnight wear, and wearing contacts not designed for this purpose can lead to eye infections and other complications.

In conclusion, FDA-approved overnight contacts, such as Air Optix Night & Day lenses, offer a convenient and safe option for continuous wear. These lenses provide clear vision and comfort while sleeping, making them a popular choice for those seeking an alternative to daily wear contacts or glasses. However, it is important to follow the recommended wearing schedules and lens care practices to maintain eye health and ensure a positive experience with overnight contact lenses.

Consult an Eye Doctor

If you're considering 30-day continuous wear contact lenses, it's important to consult an eye doctor first. While these lenses offer convenience and freedom, there are potential risks involved, and not everyone's eyes may be suitable for extended wear.

An eye doctor can help determine if your eyes can tolerate this type of contact lens and provide guidance on proper care and usage. They will also be able to recommend specific brands that are FDA-approved for extended wear, such as Air Optix NIGHT & DAY lenses. These lenses are designed to be worn continuously for up to 30 days and nights, providing clear and comfortable vision correction around the clock. However, it's important to follow the recommendations of your eye care professional regarding wear and replacement schedules.

Even with FDA-approved extended-wear lenses, there are potential risks to be aware of. Sleeping in contact lenses can increase the odds of eye infections, as bacteria can get trapped under the lenses and grow unimpeded. This can lead to serious eye problems and even potential vision loss. Additionally, contact lenses can disrupt the natural flow of oxygen to the eye, which is essential for corneal health. Insufficient oxygen can cause cornea swelling, irritated red eyes, and uncomfortable lens wear.

By consulting an eye doctor, you can ensure that you are using extended-wear contact lenses safely and effectively. They can advise you on the proper care and maintenance of your lenses, as well as provide guidance on any potential side effects or complications that may arise. It's important to remember that everyone's eyes are unique, and what works for someone else may not work for you. Therefore, seeking personalized advice from a qualified eye doctor is crucial for maintaining healthy eyes and optimal vision.

Frequently asked questions