What Really Happens When You Sleep In Your Contact Lenses in Winnipeg

If you have contact lenses in Winnipeg you might have considered sleeping in them from time to time. After all, it shouldn’t be that big of a deal, right? Actually, this practice could lead to eye diseases and conditions considered bad for your vision. Learn the facts from your optometrist in Winnipeg at Westwood Optical about sleeping while wearing contact lenses.

Can I Wear Any Type of Contacts to Sleep? 

The majority of contact lenses are not designed for overnight wear. For example, if you have daily use contacts that are tossed in the trash each day these are not made for overnight use. They don’t allow your eyes to moisten properly or obtain oxygen, and as a result can leave your eyes dry and irritated. Some contacts called overnight contacts are used primarily at night. Before sleeping in your contacts ask your Winnipeg eye doctor if this is acceptable.

What Happens to My Eyes If I Wear Contacts at Night?

If you fall asleep wearing contacts it will reduce the amount of oxygen available to your eyes. It will also reduce the moisture produced by your eyes. If you do this once every so often it won’t have that big of an effect on your eye health. However, if you are regularly sleeping in contacts not meant for overnight use, this can lead to eye problems. 

Can I Take a Nap Wearing Contacts?

This is a tricky one. In general, even during a nap you should remove your contacts. The issue is that when taking a nap you don’t want to take the time to remove your contacts first. So you end up falling asleep wearing them. However, bacteria can start festering between your contacts and eyes even during nap time. 

Your Winnipeg Optometrist

Here at Westwood Optical we are your Winnipeg optometrist providing vision correction methods. Whether you are getting your first contacts or have questions about your existing contact lenses, let us help you. We serve patients in Winnipeg, Westwood, Manitoba, and St. James. Contact our office at today to schedule an eye exam for contacts at your eye doctor in Winnipeg.