Should You Wear Contact Lenses While Flying?

What Should You Know About Wearing Contacts During Flights?

Contents

1 Considerations for Wearing Contacts on a Plane
2 Can I wear contact lenses on a long haul flight?
3 Tips for Traveling with Contact Lenses

When preparing for air travel, it’s essential to pack wisely and plan for comfort, particularly for contact lens wearers who often wonder if it’s safe to wear their lenses during a flight. The answer is generally yes, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.

Flying can lead to dehydration, exacerbated by the cabin’s low humidity and reduced oxygen levels. This environment can dry out your eyes, potentially causing your contact lenses to fit more tightly. This tighter fit can lead to discomfort and even microscopic tears in the cornea if the dryness is severe. To prevent these issues, consider hydrating well before and during your flight, and think about using lubricating eye drops specifically designed for contact lens wearers. These precautions will help mitigate the drying effects of air travel and keep your eyes more comfortable throughout your journey.

Considerations for Wearing Contacts on a Plane

Dry Cabin Air

The air inside an airplane cabin is notably dry, which can lead to discomfort and dryness in your eyes. This environment can make wearing contacts less comfortable than usual. To counteract this, consider using lubricating eye drops both before and during the flight. These drops can help maintain moisture in your eyes and prevent the dryness that often comes with cabin air.

Duration of the Flight

For long-haul flights, particularly those lasting more than eight hours or overnight, wearing contacts might lead to increased eye fatigue and dryness. In such situations, switching to glasses can provide your eyes with much-needed relief and reduce the risk of developing dry spots or corneal ulcers from prolonged lens wear. Keeping a travel-size contact lens case and your cleaning solution handy will allow you to make the switch easily if your eyes start to feel uncomfortable.

Lens Discomfort and Care

If you typically experience discomfort when wearing contacts for extended periods, flying might exacerbate these issues due to the dry air. Removing your contacts and wearing glasses during your flight could prevent potential irritation. Additionally, it’s crucial to maintain stringent hygiene practices with your lenses when traveling. Make sure you have access to clean water and proper lens cleaning solutions to avoid contamination and ensure your lenses are clean and safe to wear.

Can I wear contact lenses on a long haul flight?

Yes, you can wear contact lenses on a long-haul flight, but it’s advisable to take precautions due to the dry cabin air. Consider using lubricating eye drops to combat dryness and bring a pair of glasses as a backup if your eyes become uncomfortable. It’s also wise to avoid sleeping in contacts during the flight to prevent irritation and ensure your eyes remain hydrated and healthy.

Tips for Traveling with Contact Lenses

Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to help counteract the dryness of the cabin air.
Prepare for Eye Care: Pack a small bottle of lubricating drops and a travel-sized lens care kit.
Consider Glasses: Have a pair of glasses ready, especially for longer or overnight flights, to give your eyes a rest.
Consult Your Eye Doctor: Before embarking on your journey, it might be beneficial to speak with your eye care professional. They can provide advice tailored to your specific needs and eye health.

While it’s generally okay to wear contact lenses during flights, being prepared and understanding the challenges posed by air travel can help ensure a comfortable experience for your eyes. Adjustments like using lubricating eye drops, switching to glasses on longer flights, and maintaining proper lens hygiene can make a significant difference in your travel comfort. Always consider personalized advice from your eye care provider to cater to your particular eye health needs.

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