Wearing Contact Lenses on airplanes
Contact lens wearers should be careful while flying in airplanes with their lenses on. Contact Lens infections are common among frequent travellers on airplanes. The pressure and atmosphere in such closed confines and high altitudes may cause discomfort due to dryness, redness and other infections.
The problems to the eye are usually caused because of the low humidity in the closed spaces of the airlines, low levels of oxygen and poor handling.
Moreover, if alcohol is consumed in large quantities while travelling on an airplane may cause dehydration. Other medications like antihistamines may also cause dryness and dehydration. This will also lead to reduce oxygen supply to the eye. Unless one is wearing extended wear lenses, sleeping with contact lenses can lead to irritation.
Infections to the eye can also be caused by pathogens that are continually circulating in the air in the confined spaces of the aircraft. This may also lead to sinus and nasal problems, which can exasperate the dryness and irritation to the eye. It reduces the resistance to infection because of fatigue, impaired tears film and reduced efficacy of solutions while travelling.
While travelling, lens wearers should keep a few things in mind:
- It is better to wear spectacles in long distance flights.
- If lenses are a must then it is better to wear daily-disposables or extended wear.
- Use comfort drops to lubricate eyes and lenses
- Avoid alcohol and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- Take extra care with solutions while travelling
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