Can You Sleep in Toric Contact Lenses? The Risks and Best Practices for Eye Health

 Toric contact lenses are a popular choice for individuals with astigmatism, providing clear and stable vision by correcting the irregular shape of the cornea. However, many users wonder whether it is safe to sleep in toric lenses.

In this blog, we will clarify whether toric contact lens can be worn overnight, discuss the risks of sleeping in them, and share best practices for maintaining eye health.

Can You Sleep in Toric Contact Lenses?

The short answer: It depends on the type of toric lenses you use.

Some toric lenses are specifically designed for extended or overnight wear, but most daily-wear toric lenses should not be worn while sleeping. Always check with your eye care professional to determine whether your lenses are approved for overnight use.

The Risks of Sleeping in Toric Contact Lenses

Wearing toric lenses overnight, especially if they are not designed for extended wear, can lead to several eye health risks, including:

1. Reduced Oxygen Supply to the Cornea

• Contact lenses act as a barrier to oxygen, and sleeping in them further reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your cornea.

• Low oxygen levels can cause corneal swelling, discomfort, and long-term damage to eye health.

2. Increased Risk of Eye Infections

• Sleeping in lenses creates a warm, moist environment that promotes bacterial and fungal growth.

• Studies show that overnight lens wear increases the risk of eye infections like microbial keratitis, which can lead to vision loss if untreated.

3. Dryness and Discomfort

• During sleep, tear production decreases, leading to dryness and irritation when waking up.

• Lenses may feel stuck to the eye upon waking, making removal difficult and uncomfortable.

4. Corneal Ulcers and Inflammation

• Prolonged lens wear can cause corneal ulcers (open sores on the cornea), leading to pain, redness, and blurred vision.

• Inflammation from improper wear can result in long-term damage and even scarring.

Best Practices for Eye Health with Toric Lenses

If you wear toric contact lens, follow these best practices to protect your eyes and maintain optimal vision health:

1. Remove Lenses Before Sleeping

• Unless prescribed extended-wear lenses by your eye doctor, always remove toric lenses before going to bed.

• Give your eyes time to breathe overnight to prevent dryness and irritation.

2. Use Extended-Wear Lenses Only If Recommended

• Some silicone hydrogel toric lenses are FDA-approved for extended wear, allowing more oxygen to reach the cornea.

• Even with extended-wear lenses, limit overnight use and follow your doctor’s guidelines.

3. Follow a Strict Cleaning Routine

• Clean and disinfect lenses with a recommended solution every night.

• Never use tap water or saliva to clean lenses, as this can introduce harmful bacteria.

4. Keep Your Eyes Hydrated

• Use lubricating eye drops to prevent dryness, especially if you experience discomfort after long hours of wear.

• Drink plenty of water and avoid air-conditioned environments that may dry out your eyes.

5. Replace Lenses as Directed

• Stick to the recommended replacement schedule (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly) to prevent protein buildup and bacterial contamination.

• Using lenses beyond their lifespan increases the risk of eye infections and discomfort.

6. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

• Regular check-ups help monitor eye health and ensure your lenses fit properly.

• If you experience redness, pain, or blurry vision, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye doctor.

While some toric contact lens are designed for overnight use, most should be removed before sleeping to maintain eye health and prevent complications. Sleeping in non-extended wear lenses can lead to serious eye infections, dryness, and reduced oxygen supply to the cornea. By following proper lens care and best practices, you can enjoy clear vision and keep your eyes healthy for years to come.