Why You Might Experience Eye Pain After Sleeping in Contacts

Wearing contact lenses while sleeping can sometimes cause eye pain?

Dear Dr.
Chang,
Recently, I have been sleeping with soft contact lenses occasionally, and upon waking up, my eyes experience pain that lasts for 1-2 hours, accompanied by a runny nose.
I did not have these issues before, but they have started occurring recently.
I have visited three different ophthalmologists, and each provided different explanations, suggesting inflammation, elevated intraocular pressure, or pressure from the meibomian glands.
These varying opinions have caused me some concern, especially since I wear contact lenses in both eyes, but only my right eye (which has a stronger prescription) experiences this discomfort.
I would like to ask the doctor what might be causing this and how I can resolve it.
Thank you.

Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/11/13

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology

Waking up with eye pain may be due to conjunctivitis, sebaceous gland obstruction, or insufficient tear production.
You may consider stopping the use of contact lenses for a week to see if there is improvement; if the conjunctivitis is caused by contact lenses, the symptoms should improve.

Reply Date: 2007/11/13

More Info

Wearing contact lenses while sleeping can lead to a variety of eye discomforts, including pain upon waking. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, primarily related to the way contact lenses interact with the eye during sleep. Here’s a detailed analysis of the potential causes and recommendations for addressing the issue.

Potential Causes of Eye Pain After Sleeping in Contacts
1. Oxygen Deprivation: Contact lenses, especially those that are not designed for extended wear, can restrict oxygen flow to the cornea. During sleep, the eyes are closed, and the natural oxygen supply from the air is significantly reduced. This can lead to corneal hypoxia, resulting in discomfort, pain, and even inflammation.

2. Dryness and Tear Film Instability: While wearing contacts overnight, the tear film may become unstable. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and a sensation of grittiness or pain upon waking. If your eyes are not adequately lubricated, the lenses can adhere to the cornea, causing discomfort when you try to blink.

3. Infection or Inflammation: Sleeping in contact lenses increases the risk of developing infections such as keratitis, which is an inflammation of the cornea. Symptoms can include pain, redness, and discharge. If you experience persistent pain or changes in vision, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.

4. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may develop allergies to the materials in the contact lenses or to the solutions used for cleaning and storing them. This can lead to symptoms such as redness, itching, and pain.

5. Increased Eye Pressure: As mentioned by some of the eye specialists you consulted, elevated intraocular pressure can also be a factor. While this is less common, it can occur due to various underlying conditions, and it’s essential to monitor eye pressure regularly, especially if you have a family history of glaucoma.

6. Eyelid Issues: Conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) or meibomian gland dysfunction can also contribute to discomfort when wearing contact lenses. These conditions can lead to poor tear quality and increased irritation.

Recommendations for Relief and Prevention
1. Avoid Sleeping in Contacts: If your lenses are not specifically designed for overnight wear, it’s best to remove them before sleeping. This will help maintain corneal health and reduce the risk of complications.

2. Use Proper Lens Care: Ensure that you are using the appropriate cleaning solutions and following the recommended hygiene practices for your contact lenses. This includes replacing lenses as prescribed and not exceeding their recommended wear time.

3. Consider Daily Disposables: If you frequently experience discomfort, consider switching to daily disposable lenses. These lenses are designed for single use and can help reduce the risk of infections and irritation.

4. Stay Hydrated: Ensure that you are drinking enough water throughout the day to maintain overall hydration, which can help with tear production.

5. Consult an Eye Care Professional: Since you have already seen multiple eye doctors, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a specialist who focuses on contact lens-related issues. They can conduct a thorough examination and may suggest alternative lens types or treatments.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including when they occur and their severity. This information can be helpful for your eye care provider in diagnosing and treating your condition.

7. Use Artificial Tears: If dryness is a significant issue, consider using preservative-free artificial tears to lubricate your eyes before bed and upon waking.

In summary, while experiencing eye pain after sleeping in contact lenses can be concerning, understanding the underlying causes can help you take appropriate steps to alleviate discomfort and protect your eye health. If symptoms persist, it is crucial to seek further evaluation from an eye care professional to rule out any serious conditions.

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