The Eid holiday is a beloved tradition, particularly for many Muslims in Indonesia. Some individuals travel long distances to reunite with their families and celebrate the occasion.
However, for those with dry eyes, the journey can be difficult. Dry eyes occur when the eyes don’t produce enough tears, leading to inadequate lubrication. This can result in discomfort, such as stinging, itching, burning sensations, and blurred vision, all of which can interfere with driving and pose safety risks.
Safe Driving Tips for Eid Holiday with Dry Eyes
To ensure a safe and comfortable Eid holiday trip, here are several tips to keep in mind:
Wear Eye Protection When You Drive
For motorcycle riders, it’s recommended to wear a full-face helmet. Not only does this helmet enhance road safety, but it also protects your eyes from wind, dust, and other particles. Wind exposure can speed up the evaporation of tears, worsening dry eye symptoms.
For car drivers, wearing sunglasses is a good idea to protect your eyes from the effects of air conditioning and direct sunlight. Sunglasses help block harmful UV rays and reduce glare, keeping your eyes comfortable during the journey.
Use Eye Drops
Eye moisture can be maintained while you drive by using over-the-counter eye drops. These eye drops help lubricate the eyes and relieve dry eye discomfort.
Adjust the AC Ventilation
Be mindful of the air conditioning vents in your vehicle. Avoid directing them straight at your face, as the cold air can dry out your eyes, worsening the symptoms.
Take Regular Breaks
Long periods of driving can lead to eye fatigue and intensify dry eye symptoms. It’s advisable to take breaks every 2-3 hours.
During these breaks, close your eyes for a moment or gently massage the area around your eyes to release tension.
Avoid Contact Lenses
If you wear contact lenses and experience dry eyes, it may be best to switch to glasses for the trip. Contact lenses can absorb moisture from the eyes, which can aggravate dryness and discomfort.
Blink More Often
While driving, especially on long trips, the frequency of blinking tends to decrease. This can lead to dry eyes. Try to consciously blink more often to maintain moisture on the surface of your eyes.
By following these tips, you can ensure a more comfortable and safer Eid holiday journey while avoiding dry eye issues. If you experience symptoms like glare, blurred vision, or a sensation of sand or burning in your eyes, be sure to consult a doctor right away.
You can also use the consultation service on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.
Looking for more information about health tips and tricks, first aid, and other home remedies? Click here!
- dr Hanifa Rahma
Rachell Nall, MSN, CRNA (2024). Staying Safe on the Road: How to Deal with Dry Eyes While Driving. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/shut-the-lid-on-chronic-dry-eye/driving
Mayo Clinic (2022). Dry eyes. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863
American Optometric Association. Dry eye. Available from: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/dry-eye?sso=y