The Risks of Showering with Contact Lenses Explained

Wearing contact lenses has revolutionized vision correction, offering an alternative to glasses that many people find more convenient and aesthetically pleasing. However, the convenience of contact lenses can sometimes lead to bad habits, such as sleeping or showering with them in. While it might seem harmless, these practices can have significant negative impacts on eye health. This article delves into the risks associated with sleeping and showering with contact lenses, providing insights into why these actions should be avoided and offering tips for proper contact lens care.

The Basics of Contact Lens Hygiene

Contact lenses sit directly on the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. This position makes them excellent for correcting vision but also places them in a vulnerable spot where they can easily introduce bacteria and other pathogens. Proper hygiene is essential to prevent infections and other complications.

Why Proper Contact Lens Care is Crucial

Preventing Infections: The eye is particularly susceptible to infections because it is a moist environment where bacteria can thrive. Proper cleaning and storage of contact lenses are critical to minimizing the risk of infections.

Avoiding Inflammation: Improper use of contact lenses can lead to inflammation of the cornea (keratitis), which can cause pain, redness, and blurred vision.

Maintaining Eye Comfort: Proper care ensures that lenses remain comfortable to wear and do not cause irritation or discomfort.

Risks of Sleeping with Contact Lenses

Many people find it tempting to sleep with their contact lenses in, especially after a long day. However, this habit can be detrimental to eye health.

Decreased Oxygen Supply

Contact lenses reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches the cornea. While modern lenses are designed to be more breathable, they still do not provide as much oxygen as the cornea needs. When you sleep with your lenses in, the closed eyelids further reduce oxygen supply, leading to a condition known as hypoxia. This can cause:

Corneal Swelling: Lack of oxygen can cause the cornea to swell, leading to blurred vision and discomfort.

Increased Risk of Infection: Hypoxia creates an environment where bacteria and other pathogens can thrive, increasing the risk of serious eye infections.

Risk of Infections

Sleeping with contact lenses significantly increases the risk of eye infections. One of the most serious infections is microbial keratitis, which can cause severe pain, redness, discharge, and even vision loss. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who sleep in their lenses are six to eight times more likely to develop keratitis.

Corneal Ulcers

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, often caused by infections. Sleeping with contact lenses increases the likelihood of developing corneal ulcers, which can be painful and may lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

Risks of Showering with Contact Lenses

Showering with contact lenses might seem less risky than sleeping with them, but it also poses significant dangers.

Exposure to Waterborne Pathogens

Tap water, while generally safe to drink, can harbor a variety of microorganisms that are harmful to the eyes. These include bacteria, fungi, and Acanthamoeba, a type of amoeba that can cause severe eye infections.

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare but serious infection that can lead to permanent vision loss. This amoeba is commonly found in water and can latch onto contact lenses, especially when the lenses are exposed to tap water during showering. Symptoms include severe pain, redness, blurred vision, and a sensation of something in the eye.

Lens Contamination

Showering can cause contact lenses to become contaminated with waterborne pathogens, leading to infections. The warm, moist environment of a shower is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can adhere to the lenses and then to the cornea.

Why Sleeping and Showering with Contacts are Equally Dangerous

Both sleeping and showering with contact lenses disrupt the natural defenses of the eye and increase the risk of infections. Here’s a closer look at how these actions compromise eye health:

Compromised Tear Film

The tear film is a thin layer of fluid that covers the surface of the eye, providing essential nutrients and protection. Both sleeping and showering with contact lenses can disrupt the tear film, leading to dryness and irritation. A compromised tear film makes it easier for pathogens to adhere to the eye and cause infections.

Biofilm Formation

Contact lenses can develop biofilms, which are colonies of bacteria that adhere to the lens surface. These biofilms are difficult to remove and can be a source of chronic infections. Sleeping and showering with lenses increases the likelihood of biofilm formation, as the lenses are not properly cleaned and disinfected.

Reduced Immune Response

The cornea has its own immune defense mechanisms, but these can be weakened by lack of oxygen (hypoxia) and exposure to waterborne pathogens. Sleeping and showering with contact lenses compromise these defenses, making the eye more susceptible to infections.

Proper Contact Lens Care

To avoid the risks associated with sleeping and showering with contact lenses, it is essential to follow proper lens care guidelines.

Daily Care Routine

Wash Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling contact lenses. Dry them with a lint-free towel.

Clean and Disinfect: Use a recommended contact lens solution to clean and disinfect your lenses daily. Never use tap water or saliva to clean lenses.

Store Properly: Store lenses in a clean lens case with fresh solution every time. Replace the lens case every three months.

Avoiding Water Exposure

Remove Lenses Before Showering: Always remove your contact lenses before showering, swimming, or any activity that involves water.

Use Eye Protection: If you need to wear lenses in the water, such as for swimming, use waterproof goggles to protect your eyes.

Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining eye health and ensuring that your contact lenses fit properly and are suitable for your eyes. Your eye care professional can detect early signs of problems and provide guidance on proper lens care.

What to Do If You Accidentally Sleep or Shower with Contacts

Accidents happen, and sometimes you might forget to remove your lenses before sleeping or showering. If this occurs, follow these steps:

Remove Lenses Immediately: As soon as you realize you have slept or showered with your lenses, remove them carefully.

Clean and Disinfect: Clean and disinfect the lenses thoroughly using a recommended solution. Do not use the lenses if they appear damaged or cause discomfort.

Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for any signs of infection, such as redness, pain, discharge, or blurred vision. If any symptoms occur, contact your eye care professional immediately.

Conclusion

Sleeping or showering with contact lenses might seem convenient, but the risks far outweigh the benefits. These practices can lead to serious eye infections, corneal ulcers, and even permanent vision loss. Proper contact lens care, including removing lenses before sleeping or showering, is essential for maintaining eye health and enjoying the benefits of clear vision without complications. Always follow your eye care professional’s recommendations and stay vigilant about lens hygiene to keep your eyes healthy and safe.