Don’t Let Dry Eyes Derail Your Expedition

Dry, cold, high, and windy — the perfect recipe for eye discomfort on any expedition.

Even before you add contact lenses into the mix, dry eyes are a common complaint among outdoor athletes.

Risks Include:

• Wind-induced tear film instability

• High UV and cold → inflammation of ocular surface

• Reduced blink rate at altitude or during focus-intensive tasks

• Poor hydration, altitude meds, and environmental stress

Why Contacts Make It Worse:

• Trap particles and dry out faster

• Increase risk of corneal abrasion or infection if hygiene is compromised

Tips for Relief:

• Use preservative-free artificial tears (single-use vials)

• Avoid extended-wear contact lenses

• Wraparound eyewear helps reduce wind exposure

• Consider surgical vision correction for long expeditions

Dry eyes in the mountains? There’s a better way. [Let’s talk.]