It is quite common to experience very dry eyes after long flights.
The temperature- and pressure-controlled cabin of an airplane produces an extremely dry environment that can easily affect your eyes.
The good news is that eye doctors have come up with a number of steps that a person can take to minimize the risk of experiencing these unpleasant symptoms that arise – otherwise known as “travelers’ dry eye.” See below for a few tips to help you avoid dry eyes when traveling:
Dehydration can cause dry eye symptoms to worsen.
Hydrate yourself all the time, especially before, during and after your flight. Alcoholic beverages and caffeinated drinks like tea or coffee could increase the likelihood of dehydration and if you like these kinds of beverages in-flight then be sure to drink extra fluids to account for this possibility.
Artificial tears can also help combat dry eyes. Have a bottle of artificial tears with you during your trip and they can really help. If you have chronic dry eyes then speak to your doctor before your flight to discuss the possibility that you may need a more effective lubricant for the flight.
Sleeping during your flight can also dry out the eyes. If you tend to nap while in the air, try wearing an eye mask. This will help reduce the dry air that reaches your eyes while you sleep, minimizing the chances of dry eyes.
Contact lenses can also increase the possibility of dry eyes, even under normal conditions. This is especially the case in the particularly dry air of the airplane cabin. If you wear contact lenses then think about switching to a pair of glasses during the flight to eliminate this increased risk.
The air conditioning vent above your seat blows dry air directly onto your eyes. Close this vent and you will feel the difference in of dry eyes.
For more on how to prevent dry eye discomfort on your next plane trip, talk with your eye doctor at Dr. Wong & Associates today.
