Introduction
Napping is a great way to recharge your batteries, but can you do it with contact lenses? While it might seem convenient to keep your contacts on while sleeping, it’s important to know the risks and precautions. In this article, we’ll explore the dangers of napping with contacts, the best practices for sleeping with them, and the tips and products that can help you nap comfortably without risking your eye health.
Sleeping with Contacts: The Risks You Need to Know Before Taking a Nap
Sleeping with contacts can lead to a range of risks and complications. The most common issues are:
- Corneal ulcers
- Eye infections
- Dry eyes
- Eye redness and irritation
- Blurred vision
These risks are higher when you sleep with your contacts, as your eyes produce less oxygen during sleep, and the lenses trap bacteria and debris against your eyes.
To avoid these risks, it’s critical to follow the correct care routine when wearing contacts and taking naps. Otherwise, you may suffer from vision loss, eye pain, and even blindness.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Napping with Contact Lenses
When it comes to napping with contact lenses, there are specific things you should and shouldn’t do to minimize risks and protect your eyes:
Do’s
- Clean and disinfect your contact lenses before napping
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your contacts
- Use a fresh, sterile contact lens solution every time
- Store your contacts in a clean and dry case when not in use
- Replace your contacts as instructed by your eye doctor
Don’ts
- Don’t sleep with your contacts unless your eye doctor recommends it
- Don’t nap for more than an hour with your contacts on
- Don’t reuse contact lens solution or top off the old one
- Don’t swim or shower with contacts in
- Don’t wear contacts while using makeup or hairspray
The Ultimate Guide to Sleeping with Contacts Comfortably
If you must take a nap with your contacts on, there are ways to make it more comfortable and less risky. Here are some tips:
Tips for Sleeping Comfortably with Contacts
- Blink frequently to keep your eyes moist and lubricated
- Use eye drops before napping to avoid dryness
- Take your contact lenses out immediately upon waking up
- Rest your eyes for a few minutes after removing your contacts
- Use a sleep mask to block light and reduce dryness
Products that Can Help You Have a Comfortable Nap with Contacts
- Contact lens rewetting drops
- Eyelid wipes to clean the lids
- Moisturizing eye drops
- Eye masks or sleep shades
- Prescription eye drops to relieve dry eyes
Is it Safe to Nap with Contact Lenses? What the Experts Say
The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises against sleeping with any type of contact lens, even those designed for extended wear. The risks of sleeping with contacts include:
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections
- Fungal infections
- Corneal ulcers
- Eye irritation and dryness
However, if you must nap with contacts, follow the safe use and care instructions, and consult your eye doctor for personalized advice.
5 Tips for Napping with Contacts and Avoiding Discomfort or Eye Infections
Here are some practical tips you can apply to nap comfortably with contact lenses:
Tip #1: Choose the Right Contacts
Not all contacts are created equal, and some types may be safer and more comfortable for napping. Consult your eye doctor to find a pair that suits your needs and habits.
Tip #2: Practice Good Hygiene
Before and after napping with contacts, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or face to avoid spreading bacteria or germs.
Tip #3: Avoid Rough Sleeping
If you’re a restless sleeper, you may rub your eyes or move your contacts, increasing the risks of infection and irritation. Try to stay still and avoid touching your eyes during your nap.
Tip #4: Use Eye Drops
Applying moisturizing or rewetting eye drops before and after your nap can alleviate dryness and reduce the risks of infection or irritation.
Tip #5: Take Regular Breaks
If you wear contacts for extended periods, it’s essential to give your eyes a break from time to time. Take out your contacts, rest your eyes for a few minutes, and use glasses if possible to reduce the risks of wearing contacts for too long.
Conclusion
Napping with contacts can be risky if you’re not careful. By following our tips and the advice of your eye doctor, you can minimize the dangers and nap comfortably without compromising your vision and health.
To sum up, the do’s and don’ts of napping with contacts involve cleaning, disinfecting, and storing your contacts properly, avoiding unsafe habits, and using eye drops and other products to keep your eyes moist and healthy.
Remember, your eyes are precious, and taking care of them is crucial for your overall well-being. Don’t assume that napping with contacts is harmless. Instead, be informed, cautious, and treat your eyes with the respect they deserve.
