Can I Sleep In Monthly Contacts?
If you’re a contact lens wearer, you may have wondered whether it’s safe to drift off to sleep while wearing your monthly lenses. After all, life can get busy, and sometimes the idea of removing your lenses before bed seems like a hassle. But is it okay to wear your contacts overnight? In this blog, we’ll explore this question in depth and provide you with some important insights on whether sleeping in your monthly contacts is safe and what best practices you should follow to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
What Are Monthly Contacts?
Monthly contact lenses are designed to be worn for up to 30 days, with the caveat that they are removed each night, cleaned, and stored in a solution until you’re ready to put them back in the next morning. Unlike daily or bi-weekly lenses, monthly lenses are made from materials that allow them to be worn longer, making them a popular choice for people who want a combination of affordability and convenience.
These lenses are durable, maintain their shape over extended use, and provide more comfort throughout the day compared to daily lenses, which must be replaced every 16-24 hours (depending on the brand). While monthly contacts are a great option for those on a budget, they do require a little more care and attention to ensure they stay clean and maintain their performance.
The key to making monthly lenses work for you is sticking to a regular cleaning and storage routine. The lenses will accumulate deposits from your eyes over time, so it’s crucial to clean them properly to avoid irritation, discomfort, or infection. This regular maintenance ensures that you can continue to enjoy clear vision and comfort every day.
Can You Sleep in Monthly Contacts?
The short answer: It depends. Some monthly lenses are FDA-approved for extended wear, meaning they can be worn overnight for up to six consecutive nights. However, not all monthly lenses are made for overnight use. It’s essential to check the specific product details or consult with your eye care provider to determine if your lenses are safe for overnight wear.
Extended wear lenses are made from special materials that allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, which is crucial for eye health. These lenses are specifically designed to be worn while you sleep, making them a convenient option for people who need continuous vision correction. But even with extended wear lenses, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully to ensure safety.
If you’re unsure about whether your specific lenses can be worn overnight, it’s always best to double-check with your optometrist. They can provide you with guidance based on your eye health and help you decide what’s best for your lifestyle.
The Risks of Sleeping in Contacts
Although some lenses are designed for extended wear, sleeping in your contacts—especially if they’re not made for overnight use—can significantly increase the risk of eye infections and irritations. Here’s why:
Oxygen Deprivation: When you sleep with your contacts in, the supply of oxygen to your cornea is restricted. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye, and it relies on oxygen from the air to stay healthy. During sleep, your eyelids are closed, and wearing contacts reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes. This can lead to corneal swelling, irritation, and discomfort.
Infections: The warm, moist environment beneath a contact lens creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. Wearing lenses while sleeping increases the risk of developing infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye) or keratitis, which is an infection of the cornea. These infections can be painful and may require medical treatment to clear up.
Dryness and Discomfort: Many contact lenses naturally absorb moisture from your eyes, but when you wear them overnight, your eyes may not be able to produce enough moisture to keep them comfortable. This can result in dryness, redness, and irritation when you wake up.
These risks are why the general recommendation from eye care professionals is to remove your contacts before going to sleep—unless you’re specifically using lenses that are approved for overnight wear.
Consulting Your Eye Care Professional
If you’re considering sleeping in your monthly contacts, it’s a good idea to consult with your eye care provider first. They can provide personalized advice based on your eye health, and help you determine if your lenses are suitable for overnight wear. Your optometrist can also check for any underlying issues with your eyes that may make sleeping in contacts riskier.
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health and ensuring that your prescription is up to date. Your optometrist can also evaluate how well your lenses are fitting and identify any potential problems before they become serious. For example, if you’re experiencing discomfort or noticing changes in your vision, it might be time for a different type of lens or a new prescription.
How to Properly Care for Your Monthly Contacts
To maximize the lifespan of your monthly lenses and keep your eyes healthy, proper care and cleaning are essential. Here are some tips to help you take care of your lenses:
Clean Your Lenses Regularly: Every time you remove your contacts, clean them with a high-quality contact lens solution. Never use water to clean your lenses, as it can introduce bacteria and cause infections. Using the right solution will remove daily deposits from your lenses and disinfect them, reducing the risk of eye irritation.
Wash Your Hands: Before handling your contacts, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This helps prevent the transfer of bacteria to your lenses and reduces the chance of infection.
Replace Your Lens Case: Your contact lens case can harbor bacteria over time, so it’s important to replace it regularly. Clean the case with disinfecting solution and allow it to air dry. Avoid reusing old solution and always use fresh solution when storing your lenses.
Stick to the Replacement Schedule: Monthly lenses should be replaced every 30 days, even if they appear to be in good condition. Mark your calendar to remind yourself to switch to a new pair to maintain clear vision and comfort.
Avoid Sleeping in Non-Extended Wear Lenses: If your lenses are not designed for extended wear, avoid sleeping in them. This will help reduce the risk of oxygen deprivation, dryness, and infection.
Key Takeaways on Sleeping in Monthly Contacts
So, can you sleep in your monthly contacts? The answer largely depends on the type of lenses you wear and your eye health. Always consult with your eye care provider before making any changes to your contact lens routine. If your lenses are approved for overnight wear, follow the guidelines closely. Otherwise, it’s best to remove them before bed to protect your eyes.
Prioritize your eye health by practicing proper care and cleaning routines for your monthly lenses. Regular check-ups with your optometrist will help ensure that your lenses continue to fit well and that your eyes remain healthy.
For more information on choosing the best lenses for your needs or to shop for high-quality monthly lenses, visit us at Blue Planet Optics. We’re committed to helping you find the perfect fit for your vision and lifestyle.
By following these tips and taking a little extra care, you can enjoy the convenience of monthly lenses while keeping your eyes happy and healthy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sleeping in Monthly Contacts
1. Can I sleep in my monthly contact lenses?
It depends on the type of lenses you have. Some monthly contacts are designed for extended wear and are FDA-approved for overnight use. However, not all monthly lenses are suitable for sleeping in, so it’s essential to check the product details or consult with your eye care professional. If your lenses are not approved for overnight wear, it’s best to remove them before sleeping to avoid eye irritation or infections.
2. What happens if I sleep in my contacts?
Sleeping in contacts that are not designed for overnight wear can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching your cornea, leading to swelling, discomfort, and an increased risk of eye infections. Bacteria and other microorganisms can thrive in the moist environment under your lenses, which may result in conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) or keratitis.
3. How can I tell if my monthly lenses are safe to wear overnight?
Check the packaging or product description for any mention of “extended wear” or “overnight wear” approval. If you’re unsure, the best course of action is to ask your eye care provider. They can review your lenses and make recommendations based on your eye health and lifestyle.
4. Can I wear my lenses while napping?
Short naps of an hour or two are generally okay for most people, but if you frequently take naps during the day, it’s essential to ensure that your lenses are comfortable and that your eyes are still getting enough oxygen. If you’re using lenses that aren’t designed for extended wear, it’s better to remove them during naps to avoid the risk of dryness or irritation.
5. What should I do if I accidentally fall asleep with my contacts in?
If you accidentally fall asleep with your lenses in, don’t panic. 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. Refrain from wearing your lenses again until your eyes have fully recovered.
6. How can I avoid the risks of sleeping in contacts?
The best way to protect your eyes is by following the care instructions for your contact lenses, including removing them before bed unless they are designed for extended wear. Regular cleaning, replacing your lenses on schedule, and visiting your eye care provider for regular check-ups will also help minimize any risks.
7. Is it safe to wear my monthly lenses for more than 30 days?
No, it is not recommended to wear your monthly lenses for longer than 30 days. Over time, lenses can accumulate deposits and bacteria that cleaning can’t fully remove. Wearing lenses past their recommended replacement period can cause discomfort and increase the risk of infection. Always follow the replacement schedule provided by your optometrist.
8. Can I switch to extended wear lenses if I want to sleep in my contacts?
Yes, if you’re interested in the convenience of wearing lenses overnight, your optometrist can recommend extended wear lenses that are designed for this purpose. These lenses allow more oxygen to reach your eyes and are specifically made to be worn continuously for several days at a time, but always follow the guidelines for their use.
9. What’s the best way to clean and store my monthly contact lenses?
To keep your lenses in the best condition, always clean them with a high-quality contact lens solution after removing them. Never use water or saliva to clean them, as these can introduce harmful bacteria. Replace your lens case regularly and use fresh solution each time you store your lenses. Be sure to follow your optometrist’s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance.
10. How can I prevent dry eyes while wearing my contacts?
Dry eyes are a common issue for contact lens wearers, but there are a few things you can do to reduce discomfort. 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 recommend a more suitable cleaning solution.