Should I Wear Contact Lenses In A Sandstorm?

Eye Safety in Sandstorms

When it comes to eye protection in a sandstorm, contact lenses are not a viable option. Sand particles can easily get trapped under the lenses, causing irritation, discomfort, and potentially leading to serious eye infections. If you must venture into a sandstorm, glasses or goggles with a good seal and a dust-repelling coating are a much better choice. Look for lenses that block out at least 99.9% of UVA and UVB rays to prevent sunburned eyes.

Choosing the Right Protective Eyewear

When selecting protective eyewear for a sandstorm, consider the following factors: impact resistance, fog-resistance, and UV protection. Polycarbonate or Trivex lenses provide excellent impact resistance and are a good choice for high-speed debris. If you plan to be in the storm for an extended period, look for goggles with a ventilation system to prevent fogging. Make sure the eyewear fits snugly and doesn’t leave any gaps for sand particles to enter.

Additional Precautions

In addition to wearing protective eyewear, it’s essential to take other precautions to protect your eyes in a sandstorm. Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching them excessively, as this can introduce bacteria and other contaminants. If you do get sand in your eyes, flush them with clean water and apply a lubricating eye drop to reduce irritation. If your eyes become severely irritated or infected, seek medical attention immediately.