Can Diabetics Wear Contact Lenses?

Published: 28 Mar 2025

       Did you know that people with diabetes are more likely to experience dry eyes, infections, and slower healing? These factors can make wearing contact lenses riskier. But that doesn’t mean you have to give them up. Many diabetics safely use contact lenses with a few extra precautions.

          In this article, we’ll explore how diabetes affects eye health, the risks involved, and smart tips for safely wearing contact lenses.

1- Risks of Wearing Contact Lenses with Diabetes

Following are the risks of wearing contact lenses with diabetes.

1.1 Dry Eye Syndrome Leading to Discomfort

Many diabetics suffer from dry eyes because diabetes reduces tear production. Without enough moisture, contact lenses can feel irritating, scratchy, or uncomfortable. This dryness may even cause blurry vision or redness.

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1.2 Higher Risk of Corneal Infections or Ulcers

When you wear contact lenses, there is always a small risk of infection. However, diabetics have a weakened immune system and slower healing, making the eyes more prone to serious problems like corneal ulcers or infections from bacteria and fungi.

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1.3 Delayed Wound Healing in the Eyes

Diabetes affects how quickly your body heals. Even tiny injuries or scratches from lenses can take longer to recover from, leading to persistent irritation or a higher chance of long-term eye damage.

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2- Can Diabetics Wear Contact Lenses Safely?

Yes, diabetics can wear contact lenses, but it comes with a few extra precautions. While contacts are generally safe, people with diabetes need to be more careful because their eyes can be more sensitive and prone to complications.

Compared to non-diabetics, diabetics have a higher risk of:

  • Eye infections.
  • Redness and discomfort from dryness.
  • Longer recovery times from minor eye injuries.

So, while the answer to “Can diabetics wear contact lenses?” is a yes, it’s important to wear them safely and pay close attention to eye health.

3- Safety Tips for Diabetics Using Contact Lenses

3.1 Always Consult an Eye Specialist Before Use

Before you start wearing contact lenses, it’s important to talk to an eye doctor. They can check your eye health and make sure you don’t have any hidden problems like diabetic retinopathy or severe dry eyes.

3.2 Stick to Daily Disposable Lenses

Daily disposable lenses are a safer option for diabetics. Since you throw them away after each use, they lower the risk of bacteria buildup and reduce the chances of eye infections.

3.3 Follow Strict Hygiene

Always wash your hands before touching your lenses. Clean your lenses as directed (if you’re not using daily disposables), and make sure your lens case is also cleaned and replaced regularly.

3.4 Avoid Sleeping with Contact Lenses

Never sleep while wearing contact lenses, even if they’re labelled as extended wear. Diabetics already have a higher risk of infections, and sleeping with lenses limits oxygen to your eyes, making complications more likely.

3.5 Pro Tip: Use Preservative-Free Lubricating Eye Drops

To fight dry eyes, try preservative-free artificial tears. These drops can help keep your eyes moist and reduce irritation while wearing lenses, especially if you struggle with dryness due to diabetes.

4- Signs to Stop Wearing Contact Lenses Immediately

4.1 Eye Redness, Irritation, or Discomfort

If your eyes feel itchy, irritated or appear red, take out your lenses right away. This could be a sign of an infection or a reaction caused by dry eyes, which diabetics are more prone to.

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4.2 Blurred or Fluctuating Vision

If you suddenly experience blurry or changing vision while wearing lenses, stop using them. This might signal an underlying issue like swelling of the cornea or uncontrolled blood sugar affecting your eyes.

4.3 Pain or Light Sensitivity

Feeling pain in your eyes or becoming unusually sensitive to light (photophobia) is a serious warning. Remove your lenses immediately and don’t wear them again until you get checked by a doctor.

4.4 When to Contact Your Eye Doctor Right Away

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait it out. Call your eye specialist promptly to prevent complications like corneal ulcers or infections, which diabetics can develop more easily due to slower healing.

5- Alternatives to Contact Lenses for Diabetics

If contact lenses don’t feel right, you can try LASIK, a better option for diabetics

5.1 Prescription Glasses

One of the safest and most convenient alternatives to contact lenses for diabetics is prescription glasses.

They reduce the risk of infections and dryness, which are common problems for diabetics who wear contacts. Plus, they’re easy to use and don’t require special cleaning routines.

5.2 Scleral Lenses

For diabetics with severe dry eyes, scleral lenses may be a helpful option. These are larger than regular contacts and create a moisture-filled cushion over the eye, helping with comfort and dryness.

However, they still require careful handling and cleaning.

5.4 LASIK or Other Vision Correction Surgeries

Some diabetics may consider LASIK surgery or other vision correction procedures to reduce or eliminate the need for contact lenses or glasses.

However, this is not suitable for everyone and should be discussed with an eye specialist, as diabetes can affect healing after surgery.

6- Conclusion

       So, guys, in this article, we’ve covered the question Can Diabetics Wear Contact Lenses? in detail. Personally, I think contact lenses can work for many diabetics, but only when used with extra care and under medical supervision.

       Always prioritize regular check-ups and good blood sugar control. Don’t forget to pass this article along to anyone you know who has diabetes and might be considering contact lenses.

7- FAQs

Can diabetics sleep with contact lenses on?

No, it’s not recommended. Sleeping with contact lenses increases the risk of infections, especially if you have diabetes. Always remove them before bedtime to keep your eyes healthy.

Are daily disposable contact lenses safer for diabetics?

Yes, daily disposables are a safer option. Since you use a fresh pair every day, there’s less chance of bacteria buildup and infection. They also reduce dryness compared to long-term lenses.

Is it safe to wear contact lenses if I have diabetic retinopathy?

It depends on how advanced your condition is. Some diabetics with mild retinopathy can wear lenses safely, but it’s very important to consult your eye doctor first. They will guide you based on your eye health.

How does diabetes affect the eyes when wearing contact lenses?

Diabetes can cause dry eyes and slow down healing, making you more prone to infections. It may also reduce sensation in your eyes, so you might not notice irritation quickly. That’s why extra care is needed with contact lenses.

Can diabetics wear contact lenses every day?

Yes, but only if their eyes stay healthy and moist. Regular check-ups and good blood sugar control are key. If you notice any discomfort, it’s best to take a break and see your doctor.

Are there alternatives to contact lenses for diabetics?

Yes! You can use prescription glasses, or scleral lenses (for very dry eyes) or discuss vision correction surgery options like LASIK with your eye doctor. Each option has its own benefits.

What should diabetics do if their contact lenses feel uncomfortable?

Stop using them immediately and switch to glasses. Contact your eye specialist to check for dryness, irritation, or infection. Never ignore discomfort, as it could lead to bigger problems.

Can contact lenses make diabetic dry eye worse?

Yes, they can worsen dry eye symptoms. Contact lenses may reduce oxygen to the eye and make dryness worse. Using preservative-free eye drops can help, but always ask your doctor first.

How often should diabetics have eye exams if they wear contact lenses?

At least once a year, but some diabetics may need more frequent check-ups. Your doctor will check for early signs of damage or infection. Regular exams help keep your eyes safe and healthy.

Can children or teens with diabetes wear contact lenses?

Yes, but with close supervision. Children and teens with diabetes should be extra careful and follow strict hygiene. They must be mature enough to manage their eye care responsibly.

8- References

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Dr Jawwad Ahmad Avatar

Dr. Jawwad, MBBS Doctor & Medical WriterDr. Jawwad is an experienced medical writer specializing in health and wellness topics. With a strong background in clinical knowledge and SEO-focused writing, he is passionate about simplifying complex medical information for readers. His mission is to ensure that every article published on MedicaWire is accurate, trustworthy, and medically sound.

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