Eye emergencies can be frightening, especially when you’re far from home. Accidents and injuries can make it hard to navigate a new city – even worse, some conditions can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated appropriately. Here are some top travel tips from a comprehensive ophthalmologist and world traveler Anne Sumers, M.D., a clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Do: Pack your Backups
If you wear glasses, bring two pairs on every trip!
Don’t: Wait to see your eye doctor
Although it may be tempting, don’t wait until you get home to see your eye doctor. Immediate treatment of small problems keeps them small.
Don’t: Use water to clean your contacts
Always travel with your contact lens case, and two bottles of contact lens solution. If one bottle opens and spills, you’ll have a backup. If your eyes feel uncomfortable, take out your contacts and put them in a sterile contact lens solution in their case — not in a cup. Never store your contacts in water— water isn’t sterile, and have bacteria that can cause serious eye infections
Do: Stock up on prescription drops
If you take prescription eye drops, be sure to bring extra unopened bottles with you. If you need eye drops for allergies, glaucoma, or dry eye, be sure to bring them with you – and pack extras!
Don’t: Ignore changes in your vision
Just because it isn’t painful doesn’t mean it isn’t serious.
Don’t: Ignore changes in your vision (yes, it’s worth repeating!)
Vision changes can be a sign of other health problems. When we travel, we change our eating and drinking habits. Blurred vision can indicate a hypertensive crisis, a stroke or out-of-control diabetes.
Do: Be Safe and Enjoy your travels!
No matter where you go, there is always something new to see and learn, so take care of your eyes while you’re traveling to ensure you can get the most out of your travels.
To schedule an appointment, call us today at 386-734-2931.
