The gates open, the music swells, and the towering silhouette of a roller coaster promises a day of thrills. As you get ready for the twists, drops, and loops, you might pause and wonder if your contact lenses are up for the ride. It’s a common question for anyone who relies on different types of contacts for clear vision.
The short answer is yes, you can wear your contacts on a roller coaster. However, it’s important to understand the potential issues that can arise from high speeds and sudden G-forces. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help you enjoy your day without worrying, so that your annual eye exam stays routine and uneventful.
The Short Answer and The Reasons Why
You can wear contact lenses on a roller coaster, but you should be aware of the environment. The high speeds and whipping winds create conditions that can affect your eye comfort and how well your lenses stay in place. Understanding these factors helps you take simple steps for a more comfortable experience.
The main concerns are dryness and the possibility of a lens shifting or falling out. The intense airflow can quickly dry out the surface of your eyes, making the lenses less stable. A little preparation and knowledge of proper contact lens care go a long way toward keeping your eyes feeling good and your vision clear all day.
Potential Risks for Your Eyes on a Ride
Dry Eyes from High Speeds
The fast-moving air on a roller coaster is like a fan pointed directly at your eyes. This constant airflow can cause the moisture on your contact lenses to evaporate faster than usual. For some, this may lead to symptoms of chronic dry eye, including a gritty feeling and even blurry vision.
A Lost or Dislodged Contact Lens
The intense forces and rapid changes in direction are part of the fun. For your contacts, this can sometimes cause a lens to move out of place or fall out completely. While contacts can’t get lost behind your eye, a dislodged lens can be inconvenient and uncomfortable. This is more likely to happen if your eyes become dry and the lens no longer fits as securely as it should.
Irritation from Debris
Theme parks are busy outdoor places with dust and other small particles floating in the air. On a high-speed ride, these tiny bits of debris can get blown into your eye. If a particle gets trapped under your contact lens, it could cause significant irritation or even lead to a corneal ulcer if it scratches the eye’s surface.
Tips for Contact and Glasses Wearers at Theme Parks
Come Prepared with Supplies
A little planning can make a big difference in your day. Before you leave home, pack a small kit with a few eye care items. This helps you manage any contact lens issue that might come up while you’re at the park. You should pack:
- A spare pair of new contact lenses
- Rewetting eye drops designed for contacts
- Your contact lens case and a travel-size bottle of solution
- A backup pair of eyeglasses
Use Protective Eyewear
One of the easiest ways to protect your eyes and contacts is to wear a physical barrier. Snug-fitting protective sunglasses or sports goggles with a strap can block the wind and shield your eyes from airborne debris. This helps keep your lenses moist and secure while you enjoy the ride.
Secure Your Glasses
If you prefer glasses from our selection of frames and lenses, remember they can fly off during a ride’s twists and drops. Secure them with an eyewear strap, often called a glasses retainer, that fits around your head to hold the frames in place. Always check the park’s rules, as some rides may not permit glasses at all, even with a strap.
Other Activities and Contact Lens Wear
Swimming Pools and Water Parks
You should avoid wearing contact lenses while swimming in pools, lakes, or the ocean. Water can contain microorganisms that may cause serious eye infections if they get trapped behind your lens. As we discussed in our post about wearing contacts in the ocean, it’s much safer to use prescription goggles if you need vision correction in the water.
Air Travel
The recycled air inside an airplane cabin is very dry. This environment can make your contact lenses feel uncomfortable, especially on long flights. The lack of moisture can contribute to symptoms of dry eye disease, so using rewetting drops or simply wearing your glasses can help you arrive at your destination with happy, comfortable eyes.
Dusty or Windy Environments
The same advice for roller coasters applies to other windy situations, like a breezy day at the beach or a hike in a dusty canyon. Wind can dry out your lenses and blow particles into your eyes. Protective sunglasses are a great idea to shield your eyes in these conditions.
When to Talk to Your Eye Doctor
Discuss Your Lifestyle and Vision Needs
Your daily activities and hobbies are important details to share during an adult eye exam. If you live an active lifestyle, let your optometrist know. An eye doctor can suggest contact lens options, such as daily disposables, that may be more convenient for sports or theme park visits.
Explore Different Vision Correction Options
If you often find contacts or glasses to be a hassle, it’s worth exploring other options for vision correction. A comprehensive eye exam is the perfect time to ask questions about alternatives like laser eye surgery and learn about all the choices that fit your vision and your life. A conversation with your eye doctor can help you find a solution that works for you.
Helping You See Your Best Every Day
Your vision needs are unique, and finding the right solution is about more than just seeing clearly; it’s about living your life comfortably. At Total Vision San Clemente, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Schedule an appointment with us today to discuss your vision needs.
