Sleeping in colored contacts, even occasionally, can significantly increase your risk of eye infections and other complications. While the allure of waking up with your desired eye color might be tempting, prioritizing your eye health is crucial. This article delves into the reasons why you shouldn’t sleep in colored contacts, the potential risks involved, and safer alternatives for changing your eye color.
Why Shouldn’t You Sleep in Colored Contacts?
Your cornea, the transparent front part of your eye, requires a constant supply of oxygen to stay healthy. Contact lenses, even highly breathable ones, create a barrier that reduces the amount of oxygen reaching your cornea. This reduction is amplified when your eyes are closed during sleep, as the eyelids further restrict oxygen flow. Extended wear lenses are specifically designed for overnight use, and even then, not all eye types tolerate them well. Regular colored contacts are not designed for overnight wear, making sleeping in them particularly risky. Similar to do colored contacts hurt, sleeping in colored contact can cause discomfort.
Reduced oxygen flow can create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, leading to various eye infections like keratitis, a potentially serious inflammation of the cornea. Sleeping in colored contacts can also cause corneal neovascularization, where new blood vessels grow into the cornea, potentially obstructing vision. Moreover, it can increase the risk of corneal ulcers, painful sores on the cornea that can lead to scarring and vision loss. Besides the increased infection risks, sleeping in colored contacts can cause mechanical irritation and discomfort, leading to dry, red, and itchy eyes.
The Potential Risks of Sleeping in Colored Contacts
The risks associated with sleeping in colored contacts range from mild discomfort to severe eye conditions that could permanently affect your vision. These include:
- Keratitis: A potentially serious infection of the cornea.
- Corneal Neovascularization: The abnormal growth of blood vessels in the cornea.
- Corneal Ulcers: Painful sores on the cornea.
- Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): An allergic reaction that can cause discomfort and blurry vision.
- Dry Eye: A condition that can lead to irritation, redness, and blurry vision.
- Eye Irritation: General discomfort, redness, and itching.
- Contact Lens-Related Acute Red Eye (CLARE): A painful infection that requires immediate medical attention.
Safer Alternatives for Changing Your Eye Color
If you desire a more permanent change in eye color, consider exploring options like laser eye color change surgery, although this procedure is still relatively new and carries its own set of risks. This procedure is similar to where to get colored contacts with prescription, both require professional consultation. It’s essential to discuss these options with a qualified ophthalmologist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs. For temporary changes, daily disposable colored contacts offer a safer alternative to extended wear lenses, minimizing the risk of infection and discomfort. Just like how long are colored contacts good for, the duration you can wear colored contacts depends on the type and your eye health.
What if I Accidentally Fall Asleep in My Colored Contacts?
If you accidentally fall asleep in your colored contacts, remove them immediately upon waking. Do not rub your eyes. If you experience any redness, pain, or blurry vision, consult an eye doctor immediately. You might be wondering, can you wear colored contacts with glasses? While possible, it’s best to consult an eye doctor for appropriate guidance.
Conclusion
While the convenience of sleeping in colored contacts might seem appealing, the potential risks far outweigh any perceived benefits. Protecting your eye health should always be your priority. By adhering to proper contact lens hygiene and consulting with your eye doctor regularly, you can enjoy the aesthetic benefits of colored contacts without jeopardizing your vision. Also, for many who ask, do colored contacts damage your eyes, the answer largely depends on responsible usage. Always prioritize your eye health over convenience.
FAQ
- Can I take a short nap in my colored contacts? No, even short naps can increase your risk of eye infections.
- Are there any colored contacts approved for overnight wear? Yes, some extended wear colored contacts are available, but consult your eye doctor before using them.
- How can I prevent eye infections while wearing colored contacts? Follow proper hygiene practices, including washing your hands before handling lenses.
- What are the signs of an eye infection? Redness, pain, discharge, blurry vision, and light sensitivity are common signs.
- How often should I replace my colored contacts? Follow the replacement schedule recommended by your eye doctor and the manufacturer.
- Can I swim in my colored contacts? It’s generally not recommended, as water can harbor bacteria that can lead to eye infections.
- Where can I buy colored contacts? Consult your eye doctor for recommendations on reputable retailers and brands.
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