There is no doubt that travelling is an exciting part of life. However, when you have a prosthetic eye, there are some extra tasks required to ensure your trip is comfortable and hassle-free. Whether it is your first trip following the receipt of your prosthetic eye, or you happen to be a seasoned traveller looking for new tips, this article is sure to help you prepare and travel with confidence.

Before You Travel: Essential Preparations

As they say, a little preparation goes a long way. Before setting off, make sure you pack a simple “prosthetic eye care kit” with you. It should include the following:

• Cleaning Solutions: As advised by your Ocularist.
• Lubricating Eye Drops: To prevent dryness and irritation.
• A Storage Container: For safely storing your prosthesis during activities when it is best removed.

Keep any and all of your important medical information available, such as your ocularist’s contact details and basic care instructions, just in case. If you are travelling internationally, it is a good idea to review your travel insurance coverage regarding prosthetic eyes and related medical care.

Airport and Flight Considerations

Flying with a prosthetic eye is typically straightforward; however, there are a few things you can do to help make your trip more comfortable. They include:

• Keep all of your prosthetic eye essentials in your carry-on luggage for fast and easy access when needed during your flight.
• Airplane cabins can get dry, so to prevent issues from developing, use lubricating eye drops often and stay hydrated. This means drinking plenty of water. Staying hydrated is good for both your body and your eye socket, which translates to comfort.

Caring for Your Prosthetic Eye on the Go

Keeping your prosthetic eye properly maintained during trips is far from complicated. Just follow your normal cleaning routine as closely as possible. Wash your hands thoroughly and always use clean water and the cleaning solution as advised by your Ocularist.

If you are staying somewhere unfamiliar or require cleaning your prosthesis in a public space, take extra precautions to not drop or misplace your prosthesis. Consider having a spare storage container with you, along with a small mirror to help make the process easier.

For common issues like increased mucus, dryness, or irritation, carry lubricating eye drops with you.

Special Considerations for Water-Based Activities

There are a few things to keep in mind if your travel plans include swimming or other water-based activities. For example:

• Always wear snug-fitting swim goggles to prevent your prosthetic eye from getting dislodged, especially in waves or busy pools.
• Some people prefer removing their prosthetic eye before diving or engaging in vigorous water sports to avoid the risk of loss or damage. This is a personal decision, and it is perfectly fine.
• After swimming, rinse your prosthetic eye gently with clean water to remove any chlorine, salt, or bacteria.

What to Do If Problems Arise While Travelling

Sometimes, even with the best preparation, something may happen. If your prosthetic eye causes irritation, discomfort, or gets damaged, here is what you should do:

• First, do not panic. Remove and rinse the prosthesis gently with clean water if discomfort occurs.
• Use additional lubricating drops to soothe irritation and provide relief.
• In the unlikely event of serious damage or ongoing discomfort, find a local ocularist or medical facility to seek temporary assistance. Having your ocularist’s contact information with you may make seeking advice easier.

Returning Home: Post-Trip Prosthetic Eye Care

After a fun trip, a little post-travel care is useful. Thoroughly clean your prosthetic eye once you return home and check carefully for signs of wear or damage. Schedule a quick follow-up appointment with your ocularist if you notice any persistent discomfort or irritation.

Regular professional polishing and maintenance are beneficial, particularly following extensive travel, to ensure your prosthesis stays comfortable and in perfect condition.

Helpful Travel Tips and Reminders

Here are a few handy tips to help make your travels easier and stress-free:

• Make A Checklist: A simple checklist ensures you never forget important items like lubricants, cleaning supplies, or your storage container.
• Stay Hydrated: One way to maintain overall comfort during your travels is to drink plenty of water.
• Carry Backup Solutions: Have a small emergency kit handy, including spare lubricating drops or a backup storage container.

Conclusion

Travelling with a prosthetic eye can be comfortable and enjoyable with just a little extra preparation. By taking simple steps before and during your trip, you can be confident knowing you are on a comfortable and stress-free journey.

If you have any specific questions or concerns, or you would like personalised advice before you head off on your next big holiday, contact the experienced team at James H. Morphett… we are always here to help. We wish you safe, comfortable, and exciting adventures in the future.