Before traveling, we do things like stock up on vitamin C to avoid getting sick, but we don't always think about our eyes while we're on the go. At Clínica Nivaria, we've put together some tips to help you keep your eyes healthy while enjoying your summer vacation:
Pack your suitcase with your eyes in mind:
It is important that you include the following items in your luggage:
- Lubricating eye drops: includes specific eye drops for allergies.
- Eye wash solution: If you have something in your eye—an eyelash, a speck of dust—you might be tempted to go to the nearest bathroom to wash your eye with tap water. But be careful! Tap water can contain impurities or minerals that can further irritate your eyes. It's recommended to use a sterile eye wash solution.
- Don't forget your sunglasses and a hat.
- Goggles if you plan to go swimming.
- Sleep mask.
Do not use contact lenses for long-distance travel
If you're about to board a plane or get into a car for a 10-hour drive, play it safe by wearing your glasses from the start. Constant temperature fluctuations and lack of humidity can irritate your eyes if you wear contact lenses. Plus, you don't want the inconvenience of removing your lenses in an airplane bathroom, a gas station bathroom, or anywhere else where you could get an eye infection.
Apply warm compresses to your eyes at the end of each leg of the journey.
Once you reach your destination, dampen a washcloth with warm water and place it over your eyes for 10 to 15 minutes. If your eyes feel like they have something in them, try an eye wash solution to irrigate them.
Take steps to avoid eye strain
Limit your screen time and adjust the lighting, so whether you're working on your computer or watching movies on a flight, be sure to take frequent breaks. A simple recommendation is the 20-20-20/7 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen for 20 seconds and focus on something 20 feet (7 meters) away.
Invest in a good pair of sunglasses and don't forget them.
Sunglasses help drivers avoid glare and also protect against UV rays. Ideally, they should be polarized, meaning they reduce glare but not UV rays.
Don't forget the antihistamines for allergies
Prepare for new allergens not common in your hometown and an allergy season that can extend well beyond spring. Pack your over-the-counter allergy medication in your carry-on and take it daily as needed.
Wear sunglasses whenever you're outdoors
UV-resistant sunglasses and hats that provide 360-degree sun protection are recommended.
Don't forget to take care of yourself
Even though you're on the move and probably worried about reaching your final destination, take care of yourself. No matter where you're headed, drink plenty of water, eat well, get enough sleep, wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes, and try to incorporate these tips into your routine.
If you have any questions or concerns about your eyes, especially as you are preparing for a trip, call 822 027 777 to schedule an appointment with one of our outstanding doctors at our Ophthalmology Clinic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
