So, you were up late studying for that final and forgot to take your contacts out before going to bed. No problem, right? Wrong! Keeping them in for too long can be dangerous. Here’s why:

When you leave contact lenses in for longer than the time prescribed, you risk the spread of bacteria because there is a lack of oxygen going to the eye. While your eyes naturally tear to wash away bacteria while you are awake, this doesn’t happen when you are asleep.

Bacteria can cause all sorts of problems, and the last thing you want to do is damage your eyesight, because, well, I’m sure you were hoping to keep that for the next fifty years or so. Here are some things that can happen when you don’t take your contact lenses out.

Eye pain and soreness – One of the first symptoms of an eye infection is eye pain, redness, itching and the feeling of something foreign in your eye. You may also experience discharge.

Blurry vision – It can be common to have bluriness when wearing your contact lenses due to movement of the lense, dryness or a change in your prescription but if you are experiencing blurry vision after you take your contact lenses out that could mean it’s more serious.

Eye ulcers – A corneal ulcer is a common ulcer on the clear front surface of the eye that can happen as a result of wearing contact lenses too long. It is painful and can cause loss of vision and even blindness.

If you are experiencing any pain or soreness with your contact lenses, please see your doctor right away. It is always better to be safe than sorry. And if you have any other questions about your contact lenses, we are always happy to help!

If you're running out of contacts make sure to come into the store or fill out our reorder form today!