Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction, offering comfort and convenience to millions of people worldwide. However, it's crucial to remember that wearing contact lenses comes with responsibilities, and one of the most important is to remove them before going to bed. Neglecting this simple rule can lead to various eye health issues. In this article, we'll explore the importance of removing contact lenses before bedtime.

Prevent Eye Infections

When you wear contact lenses all day and night, you trap debris, bacteria, and other microorganisms against the surface of your eyes. This can lead to a higher risk of eye infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye) and corneal ulcers. According to the Sleep Foundation, sleeping with contact lenses in can increase your chances of developing these infections by up to eight times. To keep your eyes healthy and infection-free, make it a habit to remove your contact lenses every night.

Avoid Dry Eyes

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods, especially during sleep, can cause your eyes to become excessively dry. When your eyes are deprived of oxygen and moisture, they can become red, itchy, and uncomfortable. This discomfort may lead to a condition known as dry eye syndrome, which can be quite painful and affect your overall eye health. Taking off your contact lenses before bed allows your eyes to breathe and naturally hydrate, reducing the risk of dry eyes and discomfort. 

Preserve Lens Lifespan

Sleeping with contact lenses can reduce the lifespan of your lenses and lead to faster deterioration. Over time, debris and protein deposits can build up on the lenses, making them less effective at correcting your vision. Removing your contact lenses before bed and properly cleaning and storing them ensures that you maintain optimal vision correction and clarity. To get the most out of your contact lenses and save money in the long run, it's essential to follow your eye doctor's recommendations and remove your contact lenses as prescribed. 

Maintain Proper Vision Correction

Contact lenses are designed for daily wear, not for continuous use. When you wear them overnight, your eyes can experience changes in shape and curvature, affecting the effectiveness of your prescription. To ensure that your contact lenses provide accurate vision correction, it's essential to give your eyes a break during the night.

The importance of removing contact lenses before bed cannot be overstated. Don't compromise your eye health – make it a habit to take off your contact lenses before bedtime.

You can rely on Abel, Klecker, & Robbins in Lexington, KY, to help you maintain healthy vision for life. Backed by over six decades of experience, this eye care team offers exams, contact lenses, and more. Visit the website for the complete listing of services, or call (859) 269-6921 to schedule an appointment.