Is sleeping with contact lenses dangerous?

19 March 2026

Sleeping with contact lenses is more common than many people think. Sometimes it happens due to carelessness, fatigue, or simply because the person forgets to remove them before going to bed. However, doing this frequently can pose a significant risk to eye health.

What happens when you sleep with contact lenses?

While we sleep, our eyes receive less oxygen because they remain closed for several hours. When contact lenses are worn during sleep, the amount of oxygen reaching the cornea is further reduced.

This lack of oxygen can weaken the surface of the eye and create an environment prone to irritation or infection.

Risks of sleeping with contact lenses

Sleeping with contact lenses—especially if they are not designed for overnight use—can increase the risk of:

1. Eye infections

Bacteria can build up on the lens and on the surface of the eye, increasing the likelihood of infections such as keratitis.

2. Irritation and redness

Many people wake up with dryness, burning, or redness after sleeping with their lenses in.

3. Reduced oxygen to the cornea

The cornea needs oxygen to stay healthy. When oxygen flow is reduced for several hours, it can lead to inflammation or discomfort.

4. Higher risk of complications

Regularly sleeping with contact lenses significantly increases the risk of more serious complications that can affect vision if not treated in time.

What to do if you accidentally fall asleep with your lenses on

If you accidentally sleep with your contact lenses:

• Do not try to remove them immediately if your eyes feel very dry.

• Use artificial tears to hydrate the eye.

• Wait a few minutes, then remove them carefully.

• If you experience pain, intense redness, or blurred vision, consult a specialist.