Do you overwear contact lenses? One late-night Netflix binge turns into “I’ll just wear them to bed.” But what’s the big deal? Can’t your contacts just stay put forever? (Spoiler: No, they cannot.) Here’s a handy FAQ to answer all your burning questions about overwearing contacts before your eyes revolt.
1. What counts as overwearing contact lenses?
Overwearing means using your contacts beyond the recommended time frame. If your dailies are stretching to day three or you’re sleeping in lenses not designed for overnight use, you’re overdoing it.
The Australian standard: Always follow your optometrist’s instructions. Dailies? One day only. Fortnightlies? Two weeks max, with proper cleaning. Anything else, and you’re flirting with danger.
2. Why is it bad to wear contacts too long?
Contacts sit snugly on your cornea (the front window of your eye), but that window needs air! Overwearing contact lenses reduces oxygen supply, leading to dryness, irritation, and even hypoxia (fancy word for oxygen starvation).
Think of your eyes as plants: they need air, water, and care. Deprive them of these, and you’re looking at long-term damage.
3. Can overwearing contact lenses cause serious eye problems?
Absolutely. Here’s the highlight reel of what could go wrong:
- Corneal ulcers: Painful sores on your cornea that can lead to scarring or vision loss.
- Keratitis: Inflammation caused by infection or irritation—bacteria love overused lenses.
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC): Allergic reaction to built-up protein deposits on your lenses. (Gross, right?)
- Dry eye syndrome: Chronic dryness that makes your eyes feel like the Sahara.
4. What if I accidentally sleep in my contact lenses?
It happens to the best of us. But waking up with lenses glued to your eyeballs isn’t ideal. Sleeping in non-extended-wear lenses increases your risk of infection by up to six times!
What to do: Remove them immediately (carefully), use lubricating drops, and give your eyes a break the next day. If you notice redness, pain, or blurry vision, call your optometrist faster than you can say “bulk billing.”
5. Can I just clean my lenses really well to keep using them longer?
Nope. Your contact lenses have a lifespan for a reason. Even with daily cleaning, they accumulate bacteria, protein deposits, and other nasties. Overwearing them is like reusing a teabag until it’s just hot water—completely ineffective and possibly harmful.
6. What’s the deal with “contact lens intolerance”?
Contact lens intolerance (CLI) is when your eyes decide they’ve had enough of your nonsense. Symptoms include redness, irritation, and an inability to comfortably wear lenses. Often, it’s caused by—you guessed it—overwearing. Treat your eyes poorly, and they’ll ghost you for good.
7. How can I break the habit of overwearing contact lenses?
- Stick to the schedule: Set reminders on your phone if you’re forgetful.
- Have backup glasses: Rock those frames when your eyes need a rest.
- Regular eye exams: Your Optometrist can catch issues before they snowball.
- Use a lens tracker app: Yes, they exist, and they’re a game-changer.
9. What should I do if my eyes are already irritated?
First, take out your contacts immediately. Second, use artificial tears or lubricating drops (available at your local chemist). Third, if symptoms persist, see your Optometrist. The longer you wait, the worse it can get.
10. Are Aussies particularly bad at following lens guidelines?
Look, Aussies are chill, but we’re not invincible. A study found many Australians push their contact lenses beyond the limit—likely because we’re busy living our best lives. But taking a couple of minutes to follow the rules can save you a world of hurt (and costly treatment).
Contacts are a modern miracle—don’t ruin the magic by abusing them. Treat your eyes with the respect they deserve. After all, you’ve only got two of them, and they’re kind of important for, you know, seeing.
If you’re unsure about your contact lens habits, book an eye check-up today. And remember: when in doubt, take them out!
