A 35-year-old member asked:
What would happen to your eyes if you keep them open for 24 hours?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Daniel Bustosanswered
Ophthalmology 20 years experience
Exposure keratopathy: Essentially, the exposure would damage the cornea (keratopathy) and lead to scratches, decreaesd vision, pain, light-sensitivity, and possibly infection.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Andrew Shatzanswered
Ophthalmology 28 years experience
Corneal damage: The cornea (front window of the eye) needs to remain lubricated in order for vision to be sharp. The skin on its surface will break down if the eye dries out, increasing the risk of infections. Assuming you are asking about staying up for 24 hours while blinking normally (rather than forcing the eyes not to blink), as long as the eyes are lubricated, the worst case would be strain and "tired" eyes.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 5, 2018
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