Sleeping with contact lenses can raise the risk of eye infections significantly. Eye care specialists emphasize caution when lenses are worn during sleep, a practice linked to higher infection rates in the United States and Canada.
Recent findings indicate that users of reusable contact lenses changed monthly are notably more prone to Acanthamoeba keratitis than wearers of daily-disposable lenses. Acanthamoeba are microscopic organisms that often inhabit freshwater sources, including pools and some plumbing systems, and can invade the eye when proper hygiene is not followed. This condition can cause severe discomfort, corneal inflammation, and, in rare cases, long-term vision impairment.
Wearing lenses overnight has been associated with an elevated risk of eye infections, a concern highlighted by health authorities in North America. In addition to infection risk, corneal surface irregularities caused by contact lenses can occur if lenses are not handled properly or if certain cleaning routines are used. The preference among many eye care professionals is toward daily disposable lenses for their consistency and reduced contamination risk.
Experts warn against flushing or cleaning reusable lenses with non-sterile water or tap water, recommending sterile saline solution or approved cleaning approaches instead. Improper cleaning methods have, in some cases, led to corneal scarring and other serious eye complications that may require surgical intervention, including corneal transplants in extreme situations. Practitioners advise patients to follow lens care guidelines closely and to seek prompt evaluation if symptoms such as redness, pain, tearing, or vision changes occur.
Earlier advice from clinicians also warned about the risks associated with other nighttime accessories, highlighting the importance of safe practices to protect eye health during sleep and daily routines. (CDC, NHS and ophthalmology associations have provided guidelines on lens hygiene and safe wear.)