Is It Really That Bad to Sleep or Shower In Contact Lenses?

Wearing contact lenses has become quite popular these days. They provide a lot of benefits over glasses. For instance, they do not fog up when you are doing physical activities, they offer better peripheral vision, and you do not have to worry about them getting in the way of your appearance. However, there are also some risks to consider when it comes to contact lens wear. For instance, sleeping or showering in your lenses is a big no-no as it can cause serious health problems. In this blog post, we will explore some of these health problems and what you can do to avoid them.

Corneal Neovascularization

This is a condition that occurs when the cornea grows new blood vessels. It is caused by a lack of oxygen in the eye, which is exactly what happens when you wear your contact lenses to sleep or in the shower. These new blood vessels can obstruct your vision and cause permanent damage to your eyes. Corneal neovascularization can also make your eyes more vulnerable to infections and inflammation, leading to even more serious issues.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a highly contagious infection that can be caused by wearing contact lenses for an extended period of time. When you sleep or shower in your lenses, your eyes become more susceptible to bacterial infections. This leads to one of the most common symptoms of conjunctivitis: red, itchy eyes. The condition may also cause a discharge from your eyes, which can be uncomfortable and difficult to manage.

Keratitis

While not as common as the other two conditions, keratitis can be one of the most severe eye infections caused by wearing contact lenses while sleeping or in water. This condition occurs when the cornea becomes inflamed, and it can lead to extreme pain, visual impairment, and even corneal damage. Symptoms of keratitis include eye pain, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, and discharge. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

How to Avoid These Issues

The best way to avoid these risks is to follow the proper guidelines for contact lens wear. Do not wear your contact lenses for longer periods than recommended. Never sleep or shower in your lenses. Always follow a strict routine of cleaning and disinfecting your lenses, and never share your lenses with anyone else. Additionally, it is important to visit your eye doctor regularly to ensure your eyes are healthy and to address any issues early on.

Spindel Eye Associates Can Help

While contact lenses can offer many benefits over glasses, it is important to take proper precautions to avoid serious eye health issues. Sleeping or showering in your contact lenses can lead to corneal neovascularization, conjunctivitis, and keratitis–all of which can have serious consequences for your eyesight. By following proper contact lens guidelines and seeing your eye doctor regularly, you can protect your vision and enjoy the convenience of contact lens wear. Contact Spindel Eye Associates in Derry, Londonderry, Raymond, and Windham, NH at 603-421-6536 today to schedule an eye exam.