Yes, you can wear contacts on a roller coaster, but it comes with potential discomfort and risks, as highlighted by eye care professionals.
When you're experiencing the high speeds and intense wind of a roller coaster ride, your eyes are exposed to conditions that are not ideal for contact lenses. According to experts, your eyes are sure to get irritated and dried out. This can lead to discomfort during the ride and potentially for some time afterward.
Potential Issues When Wearing Contacts on Rides
- Dryness: The fast-moving air can evaporate the moisture from your contact lenses and your eyes, making them feel scratchy and dry.
- Irritation: Wind and potential small particles in the air can get trapped under the lenses, causing significant irritation.
- Loss of Lenses: Although less common, there's a slight chance a contact lens could dislodge or fall out due to intense wind or if you rub your eyes because of irritation.
Practical Advice for Theme Parks
Given these potential issues, it's wise to take precautions if you plan to wear contacts while visiting a theme park with roller coasters. The most important piece of advice is to be prepared for the possibility of discomfort.
- Bring Backup Glasses: If you are insistent on wearing contacts to the theme park, at least bring a pair of glasses with you just in case your eyes get tired or too irritated. That way, you'll be able to switch them out quickly and easily if needed.
- Stay Hydrated: Keeping yourself generally hydrated can help maintain moisture in your eyes.
- Consider Daily Disposables: If you typically wear bi-weekly or monthly lenses, switching to daily disposable lenses for your park visit means you can easily remove and discard them if they become uncomfortable without worrying about cleaning or storage.
Ultimately, while wearing contacts on a roller coaster is possible, being aware of the risks and having a backup plan like bringing your glasses is highly recommended for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
