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4 Travel Contact Lens Mistakes I'm Avoiding This July Fourth

The article titled "4 Travel Contact Lens Mistakes I'm Avoiding This July Fourth" by CNET's Caroline Igo provides a comprehensive guide on how to manage contact lens care while traveling, particularly during the busy holiday period of July Fourth. The article is structured around four key mistakes to avoid, each accompanied by detailed explanations and practical tips to ensure eye health and comfort during travel.

Mistake 1: Not Bringing Enough Contact Lens Solution

The first mistake highlighted is the failure to pack sufficient contact lens solution. Igo emphasizes that contact lens solution is crucial for cleaning and storing lenses, and running out can lead to serious eye infections. She advises travelers to pack more solution than they think they'll need, considering potential delays or extended stays. Igo shares a personal anecdote about a trip where she underestimated her solution needs and had to resort to using tap water, which she later learned was a dangerous practice. She recommends carrying at least double the amount of solution needed for the trip duration and suggests using travel-sized bottles to save space.

Mistake 2: Forgetting a Backup Pair of Glasses

The second mistake is not bringing a backup pair of glasses. Igo explains that contact lenses can be lost or damaged during travel, and having a pair of glasses can be a lifesaver. She recounts an incident where she lost a contact lens while hiking and had no glasses to fall back on, which significantly impacted her trip. Igo advises travelers to always pack a pair of glasses, even if they rarely wear them, and to ensure the prescription is up to date. She also suggests using a sturdy, protective case to prevent damage to the glasses during travel.

Mistake 3: Not Storing Lenses Properly

The third mistake is improper storage of contact lenses. Igo stresses the importance of storing lenses in a clean, sterile case filled with fresh solution. She warns against the common mistake of reusing old solution or topping off the case with new solution, which can lead to bacterial growth and eye infections. Igo shares a story about a friend who developed an eye infection due to improper lens storage and had to cut their vacation short. She recommends replacing the lens case every three months and always using fresh solution. Additionally, Igo advises travelers to keep the lens case in a secure, dry place to prevent contamination.

Mistake 4: Wearing Lenses for Too Long

The fourth mistake is wearing contact lenses for extended periods without giving the eyes a break. Igo explains that prolonged wear can lead to dryness, irritation, and increased risk of infection. She shares her experience of wearing lenses for too long during a long flight, which resulted in severe eye discomfort. Igo advises travelers to adhere to the recommended wearing schedule for their lenses and to carry a travel-sized bottle of lubricating eye drops to alleviate dryness. She also suggests taking breaks from wearing lenses, especially during long travel days, and using glasses as an alternative.

In addition to these four key mistakes, Igo provides several general tips for maintaining eye health while traveling. She recommends packing a small first-aid kit with items like saline solution, eye drops, and a spare lens case. Igo also advises travelers to wash their hands thoroughly before handling lenses and to avoid touching their eyes with unwashed hands. She suggests using daily disposable lenses for travel, as they eliminate the need for cleaning and reduce the risk of infection. Igo also emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate eye dryness.

The article concludes with a reminder to consult an eye care professional before traveling, especially if planning to visit a new environment or engage in activities that may affect eye health. Igo encourages readers to prioritize their eye health and take proactive steps to avoid common contact lens mistakes while traveling.

Overall, the article provides a thorough and practical guide for contact lens wearers planning to travel during the July Fourth holiday. By highlighting four key mistakes and offering detailed advice on how to avoid them, Igo equips readers with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain their eye health and enjoy their travels without discomfort or complications. The personal anecdotes and practical tips make the article relatable and actionable, ensuring that readers can apply the advice to their own travel experiences.

Read the Full CNET Article at:
[ https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/4-travel-contact-lens-mistakes-im-avoiding-this-july-fourth/ ]