~Eyecare Tips for Summer Traveling~
- Start your trip with new refills of your glaucoma mediations. Pack a sufficient supply of each medication, and talk to your doctor in advance about extra prescriptions, just to be safe.
- Make a list of all medications you normally use, noting each prescription dosage, the medication’s trade name as well as the generic name. Generic names are especially important if you are traveling out of the country, where drug makers may use different names from those in the US.
- Pack your medications in their original pharmacy containers rather than in pill cases or other unlabeled bottles.
- Never pack medications in checked baggage when flying – they can be lost or stolen. Put them in your carry-on bag and always keep that with you. If you are traveling by car, do not store medications in the trunk.
- While the TSA does not require medications to be packed in a one-quart bag or in 3-ounce containers, all meds must still be separated from other items (removed from your purse, suitcase, etc.).
- Store all medications in a dark, cool area – for example, among or inside clothing.
- If you’re crossing time zones, ask your doctor how you should take your medication. Many doctors recommend adapting your schedule to the local time at your destination, and not worrying about a missed dose due to time change. This can simplify your regimen during your stay as well as on your return.
- Set an alarm on your cellular phone, watch or travel alarm clock to remind you when to take your daily doses. If you’re taking day trips, don’t forget to bring your medications with you. Set up reminders, like a sticky note you keep with your wallet.
- Traveling on a plane will not affect your eye pressure (IOP) – it is a controlled atmosphere and compensates for changes in altitude. But open medication bottles carefully when you’re first back on the ground.
- The air on airplanes is very dry. If you wear contact lenses, frequently apply rewetting solution.
- Be safe rather than sorry. If you wear prescription eyeglasses, take an extra pair with you.
Bon Voyage!