When Shouldn’t I Wear Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses are a popular and convenient way to correct vision without the bulk or fog of glasses—but they come with responsibilities. When worn incorrectly, they can increase your risk of eye infections, discomfort, and even long-term vision problems.
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun’s Maryville locations, we regularly help patients prevent complications and optimize their contact lens experience. Whether you’re new to lenses or a long-time wearer, here are the key times when you should take a break from contacts—and why.
1. Wearing Contact Lenses for Too Long
Contact lenses reduce oxygen flow to the cornea, especially during long hours of wear. Wearing lenses for more than 10–12 hours a day can cause:
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Corneal ulcers
- Increased infection risk
💡 Pro tip: Always have backup glasses available, and give your eyes regular breaks—especially after work or screen time.
2. Sleeping in Your Contacts
Even if labeled for “extended wear,” sleeping in contacts dramatically raises the risk of infection. Lack of oxygen during sleep can invite bacteria to flourish.
📈 Risk factor: Studies show sleeping in lenses increases your chance of infection by 6 to 8 times.
If you accidentally sleep in your contacts, remove them promptly, apply lubricating drops, and monitor for any discomfort or redness.
3. Wearing Contacts in Water
Water—whether from the shower, swimming pool, or a mountain stream—is a no-go for contact lenses. Exposure can:
- Alter the lens fit
- Introduce dangerous bacteria like Acanthamoeba, a microorganism that can cause severe corneal infection and even vision loss
🏊♂️ Best practice: Use prescription swim goggles instead of contacts when near water.
4. Not Replacing Lenses as Directed
Overwearing your contacts past their recommended lifespan can lead to:
- Protein and debris buildup
- Reduced oxygen to your eyes
- Higher chances of infection
Whether you wear daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses, stick to the schedule provided by your eye care provider.
5. Skipping Proper Hygiene
Unwashed hands and reused solution are two of the most common causes of contact lens-related eye infections.
🧼 Follow these hygiene tips:
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling lenses
- Use fresh contact solution every time—never reuse old solution
- Clean your case regularly and replace it every 1–3 months
6. Ignoring Eye Irritation
If your eyes are:
- Dry
- Red
- Itchy
- Painful
- Blurry
…take your contacts out immediately. These symptoms could signal dry eye syndrome, contact lens intolerance, or an early infection. Switch to glasses and schedule an eye exam in Maryville if the irritation doesn’t subside.
7. Skipping Your Eye Exams
Your contact lens prescription—and your overall eye health—can change over time. Missing your annual eye exam puts you at risk for:
- Incorrect prescriptions
- Eye strain and headaches
- Undetected infections or corneal damage
📅 An annual check-up at our Maryville office keeps your vision on track and your eyes safe.
Protect Your Eyes in Maryville
Wearing contact lenses safely means following good habits and staying aware of your eyes’ needs. At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun’s Maryville locations, we’re here to help you maintain comfortable, clear, and healthy vision for the long term.
Schedule Your Contact Lens Evaluation in Maryville Today
Whether you’re considering contacts for the first time or need a prescription update, our Maryville team provides expert fittings, custom recommendations, and ongoing care.
Convenient Maryville locations serving Blount County and surrounding areas
Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun – Maryville (Smithview)
628 Smithview Drive
Maryville, TN 37803
(865) 984-7012
Fax # (865) 584-3892
EyeCare Optical – Maryville (Keller Lane)
104 Keller Lane
Maryville, TN 37801
(865) 681-3937
Fax # (865) 584-3892
Request an appointment online for either location HERE.
Your eyes deserve expert care—schedule your contact lens evaluation today.