What Happens to Your Eyes at 14,000 ft — and Beyond

Altitude isn’t just tough on your lungs. Your eyes feel it, too.

From 2,500 meters upward, the environment begins to impact your visual system — sometimes silently, sometimes seriously.

What to Know:

• Corneal hypoxia: Less oxygen = corneal swelling = blurry vision

• UV overexposure: Greater risk of photokeratitis, pinguecula, pterygium, and long-term retinal damage

• Retinal hemorrhages: Especially at altitudes >5,000m in susceptible individuals

• Increased IOP fluctuations

• Intraocular gas risk: Gas expands at altitude — risky for patients with recent retinal surgery

Prevention & Management:

• Always wear high-altitude UV-blocking eyewear (Category 4)

• Consider pre-acclimatization with hypoxic systems

• Discuss supplemental oxygen use if you have prior ocular conditions — it's safe and may protect the retina

Mini FAQ:

Can I trek or climb if I’ve had LASIK?
Yes. Most patients can climb safely after LASIK— and many find it transformative.

Learn how to protect your eyes at altitude — [Download our free High-Altitude Vision Guide below.]