Spring vacations are best when spent with loved ones, getting away from the cold or retreating to the mountains. Travelling is an inevitable necessity, but it’s the “getting there” that has contact lens wearers down. Don’t let the convenience of airline amenities fool you. Accommodating travelling features may be the source of your contact lens wearing woes. Put your best face, and eyes, forward this spring season by recognizing poor travelling conditions for contact lens users and take easy preparation steps to ensure smooth travels.
Dry Air - The Invisible Tyrant
Airplanes use a combination of filtered, recirculated air from the cabin and fresh air drawn in. This allows for restored air quality, but flying at 35,000 feet causes parch circumstances. Flight humidity is comparable to a dry summer climate or being indoors during the heart of the winter season. Hello irritated, red eyes!
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Simple airline amenities can be the climax of flights as we many look forward to cracking open that free salty snack and caffeinated, sugary beverage. However, when the flight attendants make their rounds with the refreshments cart don’t be so eager to order. The dry atmosphere mixed with dehydrating treats is a recipe for itchy eyes.
What can I do to prevent dry eyes while flying?
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Your body needs moisture and hydration during a flight more than ever. For every cocktail or soda match it with two 8 oz. bottles of water, and keep it flowing throughout the flight. It may seem distasteful making fellow passengers adjust in their seats, but if you are routinely visiting the restroom your eyes will thank you. Lubrication is the key to maintaining contact lens comfort and proper hydration is the answer!
Long Hours = Sad Eyes
Airlines try to reduce passenger impatience by offering the latest magazines or blockbuster films. No harm in partaking in a little flick fun. However, getting too comfortable can have the sandman knocking at your door. Resting can make flying seem to go by faster, but letting a cat nap creep in while wearing your contact lenses is a big “no-no”.
Contact lens users should not have their lenses in for more than eight hours at a time to ensure necessary oxygen absorption. Dealing with dried-out contacts can be a hassle and a battle, especially while on a cramped airplane.
Don’t forget to pack for your eyes!
No one wants to be “that guy” holding up the security line and with TSA’s one-ounce liquid restrictions worrying about bulky contact solution bottles on a flight is a doozy. To ensure smooth travels take the necessary precautions. Packing travel-size solution dispensers, an extra pair of lenses and your eye glasses can prevent complications from losing a contact to the “popping-out” effect many overly dry lenses succumb to.
Whether you are dreaming of somewhere tropical or going home for the holidays, being a contact lens user does not need to restrict travelling comfort. Taking a few extra minutes and dollars to prepare for the elements can save you from an eye-full of complications.
If you have any questions or concerns about contact lens care or how to avoid these travelling woes with a LASIK procedure contact us at EyeCare20/20.
