What Happens If I Accidentally Wear My Contact Lenses For Too Long?

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Wearing contact lenses should feel easy and comfortable. But if you wear them for too long, it can cause problems. 

Why It's a Problem:

Contact lenses sit right on your eye. Your eyes need oxygen, and wearing lenses for too long blocks the flow of oxygen. This can make your eyes unhappy.

What Can Happen?

  • Dry, itchy eyes – Your eyes may start to feel dry or scratchy.

  • Red eyes – You might notice your eyes look bloodshot.

  • Blurry vision – Your sight may not be as clear.

  • Eye pain or discomfort – It might hurt to keep your eyes open.

  • Risk of infection – Wearing lenses too long can lead to serious eye infections.

  • Corneal ulcers – In worst cases, you can get open sores on your eye, which are dangerous and painful.

What Should You Do?

If you’ve worn your lenses too long:

  1. Take them out right away.

  2. Switch to your glasses for a while.

  3. Use rewetting or lubricating eye drops.

  4. Call your eye doctor if your eyes are red, sore, or blurry.

How to Keep Your Eyes Safe

  • Only wear lenses for the time your doctor recommends.

  • Never sleep in them unless your doctor says it’s okay.

  • Keep a pair of glasses with you.

  • Set a timer or reminder if you forget to take them out.

Need Help With Contact Lens Comfort or Care?

We’ve got you covered!

At Focus Vision Care, we help you find the right lenses and keep your eyes healthy.

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314
Call us at 718 448 1622
Book online at https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

Can Contact Lenses Cause Eye Infections?

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Yes, but they’re totally avoidable with good habits!

Why Infections Happen:
Contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, so if they’re not clean or worn properly, they can introduce bacteria. One common infection is keratitis, which can cause redness, pain, blurry vision, and even long-term damage.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Infection:

  • Sleeping in contacts (unless your doctor says it’s okay)

  • Touching lenses without washing your hands

  • Reusing old solution

  • Wearing lenses too long

  • Swimming or showering in contacts

Warning Signs to Watch For:

  • Red, painful eyes

  • Blurry or hazy vision

  • Light sensitivity

  • Watery or sticky discharge

Take your lenses out immediately and call your eye doctor if you notice any of these.

How to Prevent Infection:

  • Always wash your hands first

  • Use fresh solution every time

  • Follow your replacement schedule

  • Never rinse with tap water

  • Don’t sleep in them unless approved

Contacts are safe, when used the right way.

Need help with contact lens care, fitting, or eye health? We’re here to help!

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314
Call us at 718 448 1622
Book online at https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

What Should I Do If My Contact Lenses Feel Uncomfortable?

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Wearing contacts should feel comfortable.

If they start to bother you, here’s what to do:

  1. Wash Your Hands
     Always wash with soap and water before touching your eyes or lenses.

  2. Remove the Lens
     Take it out right away, don’t push through the discomfort.

  3. Check the Lens
     Look for:

  • Tears or damage

  • Dirt or debris

  • If it’s inside out

4. Clean or Replace
 Clean with lens solution (never water). If it still feels off, toss it and use a new one.

5. Give Your Eyes a Break
 Let your eyes rest. Switch to glasses for a while.

6.Use Eye Drops (If Needed)
 Use contact lens-safe rewetting drops if your eyes feel dry.

7.Call Your Eye Doctor
 If the discomfort doesn’t go away, or your eye is red, painful, or blurry, get checked ASAP.

 Always follow your lens care schedule, and don’t overwear them.
  Healthy eyes = Happy eyes!

Need help or a check-up?
Book a visit with us at Focus Vision Care, we're here to keep your vision clear and comfortable!

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314
Call us at 718 448 1622
Book online at https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

How Long Can I Wear My Contact Lenses Each Day?

/ Focus Vision Care/

Contact lenses are a great alternative to glasses, but how long can you safely wear them each day? It depends on your lens type, eye health, and how well you care for them. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you out:

1. Know Your Lens Type

  • Daily disposables: Wear up to 12–14 hours, then throw them away.

  • Bi-weekly/Monthly lenses: Can be worn 12–16 hours, but must be cleaned and stored nightly.

  • Extended wear lenses: Some are safe for overnight use (up to 7–30 days) with your doctor’s approval.

Tip: Not all eyes tolerate overnight wear, always check with your optometrist.

2. General Rule: 8–16 Hours a Day

Most people can safely wear contacts for 8 to 16 hours. If you're new to contacts, start with shorter wear times and increase slowly.

Listen to your eyes, if they feel dry or irritated, take your lenses out.

3. Things That Can Shorten Wear Time

  • Dry eyes

  • Allergies

  • Too much screen time

  • Poor air quality (smoke, dust, AC)

4. Signs You’ve Worn Them Too Long

Remove your contacts if you notice:

  • Redness

  • Burning

  • Blurry vision

  • Light sensitivity

  • A gritty feeling

5. Tips for Healthy Wear

  • Follow your eye doctor’s schedule.

  • Don’t sleep in lenses unless approved.

  • Replace lenses as directed.

  • Clean with fresh solution only (never water).

  • Give your eyes a break, wear glasses now and then.

Get Expert Advice from Focus Vision Care

Not sure how long you should wear your contacts? We can help!

At Focus Vision Care, we offer:

  • Custom contact lens fittings

  • Eye exams to check for dryness or irritation

  • Expert advice on what lenses are best for you

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314
Call us at 718 448 1622
Book online at https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

Your eyes are too important to risk, treat them with the care they deserve.