Sleeping with Contacts: Bad Idea?

One of the questions I get most frequently is, “Is it okay for me to sleep in my contact lenses?”

The answer to that question depends on several factors, including the types of contact lenses you wear and how your eyes tolerate contact lenses. If your lenses are FDA-approved for overnight use, it may be possible for you to wear them overnight. However, if you suffer from sensitivity with contacts or dry eyes, the reduced oxygen supply from sleeping in them could negate that option completely.

If your contact lenses aren’t FDA-approved for overnight use, then I’m not going to approve it, either. The consequences of wearing contacts overnight can lead to complications like dry, irritated eyes or even eye infections. Your eye health is of the utmost importance, and should be the number one priority when considering overnight wear.

The bottom line? Schedule an appointment with me, and I can evaluate whether you’re in the appropriate contact lenses for overnight wear and also monitor how your eyes respond to overnight lenses. This is the best way to ensure your eyes are healthy and safe.