The Importance of Proper Contact Lens Care
Before diving into what to do if you accidentally sleep in your contact lenses, it’s important to understand the importance of proper contact lens care. Wearing contact lenses is a convenient way to correct your vision, but it also comes with certain risks if not handled properly. Contact lenses can introduce harmful bacteria into your eyes, leading to infections and other eye problems. Therefore, proper hygiene and care of your contact lenses is crucial in maintaining good eye health.
What Happens When You Sleep in Contact Lenses?
Sleeping in contact lenses is not recommended, as it can cause numerous issues for your eyes. When you wear contact lenses, it reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your cornea. This can cause discomfort, redness, and even infections. However, when you sleep in your contacts, the reduced oxygen supply to your cornea is exacerbated. This can increase the risk of serious eye infections such as corneal ulcers, which can cause blindness if left untreated.
What to Do if You Accidentally Sleep in Your Contact Lenses
If you accidentally fall asleep in your contact lenses, it’s important to remove them as soon as possible in the morning. First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes. Then, gently remove your contact lenses and dispose of them properly. Do not reuse them, as this can introduce harmful bacteria into your eyes.
Signs of Eye Infections to Look Out For
If you accidentally sleep in your contact lenses, you should pay close attention to any potential signs of eye infections. These can include redness, sensitivity to light, a gritty feeling in your eyes, and blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye doctor immediately.
Tips for Proper Contact Lens Care
To avoid accidentally sleeping in your contact lenses in the future, here are some tips for proper contact lens care:
- Always wash your hands before handling your lenses
- Never reuse contact lens solution or top it up with new solution
- Clean and disinfect your lenses according to instructions from your eye care professional
- Replace your contact lenses as recommended
- Remove your lenses before swimming or showering
