Buzzfeed: The Dangers Of Sleeping In Contacts

Sleeping in your contact lenses is a bad idea. It's dangerous, even if you're just napping, and even if your contacts are labelled as extended wear. Tori Spelling learned this the hard way when she developed a corneal ulcer after sleeping in her daily contacts for 20 days straight. In this article, we'll explore the risks of sleeping in your contact lenses, and why it's important to take them out at the end of each day.

Tori Spelling's experience with sleeping in contact lenses

Actress and reality star Tori Spelling has been very open about her experience with sleeping in contact lenses. In April 2023, the 49-year-old mother of five revealed that she had developed an ulcer in her left eye, which she attributed to sleeping in her contact lenses. Spelling, who wears daily disposable lenses, admitted that she would often leave them in for up to 20 days at a time, instead of removing them nightly as recommended.

On her podcast, 90210MG with Jennie Garth, Spelling shared that she had been diagnosed with a corneal ulcer, which is a vision-threatening infection. She said, "It's my fault. I did this to myself... I don't take them out. I sleep in them. It's not healthy. You're supposed to change them."

Spelling's eye doctor told her that she was "lucky to get away with it" and that she had been risking potential eye and vision damage. The actor said that her biggest fear regarding losing her eyesight was no longer being able to perform her duties as a mother.

Following this experience, Spelling decided to switch to using 30-day disposable contact lenses. Doctors regularly warn against wearing daily disposable lenses overnight, as it puts the eye at risk of potentially sight-threatening infections, corneal ulcers, and eye sores.

The dangers of sleeping in contact lenses

It is estimated that one-third of contact lens wearers have accidentally slept in their lenses. While this may seem harmless, it can have serious consequences for your eye health.

Lack of oxygen

Contact lenses are made of plastic, which can impair the flow of oxygen to the cornea (the outer clear covering of the eye). The cornea has no blood flow, so it relies on the oxygen in the air. When you sleep with contact lenses in, the oxygen flow is impeded, altering the physiology of the eye. This can lead to an increased risk of eye infections.

Eye infections

The risk of eye infections, such as microbial keratitis, is over five times higher when you sleep in your contact lenses. This risk occurs regardless of the type of lens you use. Eye infections can cause permanent corneal damage and even vision loss if not treated promptly.

Acanthamoeba keratitis

Acanthamoeba keratitis is an infection caused by a tiny, single-celled organism called Acanthamoeba, which can be found in natural bodies of water, soil, tap water, and heating and air conditioning systems. Wearing contact lenses increases the risk of this infection, as the lenses reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the cornea, impairing its ability to protect itself from microorganisms.

Bacterial keratitis

Bacterial keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, which can be found in soil, water, and the human body. It can occur when bacteria are introduced to the lenses via your fingers or from the storage case if it is not properly cleaned and disinfected. Rinsing lenses in water instead of contact solution can also increase the risk of this infection.

Fungal keratitis

Fungal keratitis is an infection caused by fungi such as Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Candida species. It is more common in tropical areas but can occur in any climate. This infection can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Contact lens wear is a risk factor for this condition.

Corneal ulcers

Corneal ulcers are open sores on the cornea, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, or by an eye injury. They can cause eye pain, blurry vision, and photophobia (light sensitivity). Corneal ulcers can be treated with antibiotics, antiviral, or antifungal drops, and sometimes require a protective eye patch.

Preventative measures

To reduce the risk of eye infections and other complications, it is important to practice proper contact lens hygiene. This includes washing your hands before and after handling contacts, cleaning and disinfecting lenses according to the instructions, and always using fresh contact lens solution. It is also recommended to remove contacts before swimming or showering and to replace the lens case regularly.

The risk of eye infections

Sleeping in your contact lenses can have severe consequences for your eyes, with the risk of eye infections being a major concern.

Lack of Oxygen

Contact lenses are made of plastic and cover the surface of the eye, impeding the flow of oxygen to the cornea. The cornea is about as thick as a credit card and has no blood flow, so it relies on the oxygen in the air. When you sleep with contact lenses in, the amount of oxygen reaching the cornea is significantly reduced, altering the physiology of the eye and making it more susceptible to infections.

Microbial Invasion

The eyes usually stave off infections due to the protective layer of tears, which provide moisture and oxygen. However, when you sleep, you don't blink, so there is a lack of tear fluid, and the contact lens further blocks oxygen and moisture from reaching the eye. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria and microorganisms to invade and infect the eye.

Types of Eye Infections

Bacterial Keratitis

Bacterial keratitis is an infection of the cornea, which can be caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, found in the environment and on the human body. It can occur when bacteria are introduced to the lenses through improper handling or cleaning. Rinsing lenses in water instead of contact solution also increases the risk. Bacterial keratitis can lead to permanent corneal damage and vision loss if not treated promptly.

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba keratitis is an infection caused by a tiny organism called Acanthamoeba, which can be found in natural bodies of water, tap water, and even heating and air conditioning systems. Poor contact lens hygiene, such as swimming or showering with lenses, increases the risk of this infection. Acanthamoeba keratitis can lead to vision loss or blindness and often requires a long regimen of medicated eye drops or even surgery.

Fungal Keratitis

Fungal keratitis is caused by fungal infections, with types of fungi such as Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Candida species being common culprits. It is more prevalent in tropical areas but can occur in any climate. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. Treatment usually involves antifungal medicine, but severe cases may require surgery or a corneal transplant.

Reducing the Risk of Eye Infections

To reduce the risk of eye infections, it is crucial to practice proper contact lens hygiene and avoid sleeping with your lenses in. Always follow the care instructions provided with your lenses, and if you do accidentally fall asleep with your lenses, remove them as soon as possible and give your eyes a break for at least a day.

Corneal damage and vision loss

Sleeping in your contact lenses can have serious consequences for your eyes, including permanent corneal damage and vision loss.

Corneal Infections

The cornea is the clear layer that covers the iris and pupil of the eye. It has no blood flow and relies on oxygen from the air to stay healthy. When you sleep with contact lenses in, the amount of oxygen that reaches your cornea is significantly reduced, impairing its ability to protect itself from microorganisms. This increases your risk of developing a corneal infection or "keratitis".

Types of Keratitis

Bacterial Keratitis

Bacterial keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, which can be found in soil, water, and the human body. It can occur when bacteria are introduced to your lenses via your fingers, or from the lenses or storage case if they are not properly cleaned and disinfected. Rinsing your lenses in water instead of contact solution can also increase your risk of bacterial keratitis.

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by a tiny, single-celled organism called Acanthamoeba, which can be found in natural bodies of water, soil, tap water, heating and air conditioning systems, and hot tubs. Poor contact lens hygiene, such as swimming or showering while wearing contacts, increases your risk of developing this type of keratitis.

Fungal Keratitis

Fungal keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by fungi, most commonly from the Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Candida species. It is more common in tropical areas but can occur in any climate. If left untreated, fungal keratitis can lead to vision loss or blindness and may require surgery or a corneal transplant.

Symptoms of Infection

It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible if you notice any symptoms of infection, such as eye pain or discomfort, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, or itchy and burning eyes.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of corneal damage and vision loss, it is important to practice proper contact lens hygiene. This includes:

• Cleaning and disinfecting your lenses according to the instructions provided.
• Always discarding leftover contact lens solution and using fresh solution each time.
• Avoiding exposing your lenses to water of any kind, including saliva.
• Removing your contacts before swimming or going into a pool, hot tub, lake, or ocean.
• Replacing your lens storage case every three months or as directed by your eye doctor.
• Visiting your eye doctor regularly and following their instructions for safe contact lens wear and care.

Contact lens hygiene

Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses, but they require careful handling and a strict hygiene routine to ensure the health and safety of your eyes. Here are some essential guidelines for contact lens hygiene:

Cleaning and Disinfection

• Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contact lenses to avoid transferring bacteria to your eyes.
• Clean your lenses by rubbing them with a disinfecting solution, as instructed by your optometrist or the lens packaging.
• Rinse and store your lenses only in fresh contact lens solution, never tap water or saline solution, as these cannot effectively disinfect them.
• Do not expose your lenses to water of any kind, including saliva, as this can increase the risk of infection.
• Replace the disinfecting solution in your lens case daily. Do not "top off" the existing solution.
• Clean your lens case regularly, and replace it every three months, or as directed by your eye doctor.

Wearing and Removal

• Do not wear contact lenses for longer than 14 to 16 hours at a time.
• Remove your lenses before swimming, showering, or engaging in activities that expose them to water.
• Always remove your lenses if your eyes become irritated, red, or if your vision worsens.
• Follow the specific care instructions provided with your contact lenses, including the recommended wearing schedule.
• Do not sleep or nap with your contact lenses in. This increases the risk of eye infections and can lead to permanent corneal damage and vision loss.

Storage and Travel

• Replace your contact lens storage case at least every three months, or as recommended by your eye doctor.
• When travelling, purchase travel-sized contact lens solution. Do not transfer solution to another container, as it may be contaminated.

Maintenance and Check-ups

• Regularly visit your eye doctor for check-ups, at least once a year.
• Always use prescription contact lenses, even if they are for decorative purposes only. Non-prescription lenses are illegal and may be contaminated.
• Consult your eye doctor about any concerns or questions regarding the care and use of your contact lenses.

By following these hygiene guidelines, you can help ensure the health and safety of your eyes while wearing contact lenses. Remember, proper care and handling of your contact lenses are essential to maintaining good eye health.

Frequently asked questions