As a general rule, people look forward to getting some time away from working and going on a vacation. For some, one of the most crucial decisions to make is whether they're going to head to the beach and get some sun or head to the ski resort to hit the slopes. Regardless of where you go, it is important to know how to keep your eyes safe and healthy so that your trip is not potentially ruined.
Keep Your Eyes Moist
Whether you have been diagnosed with dry eye or have never experienced it before, low humidity can cause your eyes to become irritated and dry. This often happens in hotels and airplanes where the HVAC systems drain the moisture from the air. If you're visiting the mountains or the desert, you need to take extra precautions from the windy and parched climates that can cause the tears to evaporate quicker.
You can obtain temporary relief by using over-the-counter artificial tears. However, if you need to use these more than a few times a day, then you should seek relief from an eye doctor instead. Otherwise, you are putting your eyes at risk of constricted blood vessels. You should also consider wearing glasses while flying instead of your contacts to help prevent irritation.
Beware of Foreign Bodies
When you visit a new environment, you have no idea what to expect. Therefore, the wind could blow a foreign body into your eye, especially in windy and polluted areas. Wearing sunglasses can help prevent foreign bodies from entering your eyes, but you also need to have a saline solution on hand to flush your eye out if a foreign body does get in it.
Be Safe in the Sun
Aside from sunscreen for your skin, you need to also protect your eyes because they can get too much sun. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, sunlight exposure puts you more at risk for developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and cancer. Therefore, you need to always wear sunglasses that keep at least 97 percent of UVA and UVB rays out.
Believe it or not, the most dangerous days are cloudy days. The sun's rays can pass through the clouds and cause damage. Mid-day, between the hours of 10 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon, are also especially dangerous. High altitudes where there is snow can also be hazardous since the snow will reflect the sunlight and heighten its effect. Keep in mind that the water and sand in warmer climates can also reflect the sun's rays.
Avoid Self-Diagnosing Infections
Eye infections are probably one of the hardest things to self-diagnose. Red, itchy eyes are the symptoms of numerous conditions. You can try to use warm compresses and artificial drops to treat your eyes, but if the symptoms persist, it is crucial that you see an eye doctor to determine exactly what is wrong.
If you're traveling to a very remote area, especially where medical facilities and doctors may not be easy to access, consider speaking to an eye doctor before you leave for your trip. You may be able to get prescription antibiotics for your eyes or a sterile eye wash that can come in handy.
If self-help remedies do not help any eye issues that you are having while traveling, it is crucial to speak to a professional to avoid the possible loss of your vision from trauma or injury. Visit sites like http://www.drgrantmdretinalspecialist.com for more information.
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