Air travel is common, leading many to wonder about its effects on the body. A frequent question concerns eye health: does flying increase eye pressure? The enclosed cabin environment prompts this curiosity, as atmospheric changes can influence physiological responses. Understanding cabin pressure and how eyes react clarifies these concerns.
Understanding Cabin Pressure
Commercial aircraft maintain a controlled internal environment, known as cabin pressure, even at high altitudes. While planes cruise at 36,000 to 40,000 feet, the cabin is pressurized to simulate a much lower altitude, typically 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. Newer aircraft models, like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, aim for around 6,000 feet to enhance passenger comfort.
This simulated altitude means cabin pressure is lower than at sea level, but significantly higher than the external pressure at cruising altitude. Maintaining this differential pressure reduces stress on the aircraft’s structure, which would otherwise need to be much heavier. This controlled environment is crucial for passenger safety and comfort, preventing issues from extreme low pressure.
How Air Travel Affects Eye Pressure
For most healthy individuals, air travel does not cause a clinically significant increase in intraocular pressure (IOP). The human eye possesses effective regulatory mechanisms to adapt to minor cabin pressure fluctuations. Studies on healthy subjects during routine flights, with cabin pressures maintained around 8,000 feet, have shown minimal changes or even a slight decrease in IOP.
One study observed that IOP decreased significantly in healthy individuals during a two-hour flight, with this change sustained after landing. The body’s natural compensatory systems typically manage pressure changes without issue. Therefore, for the general population without pre-existing eye conditions, flying is not a risk factor for elevated eye pressure.
Flying with Pre-existing Eye Conditions
Certain pre-existing eye conditions require careful consideration before air travel, particularly those involving recent surgical procedures. Individuals with glaucoma, characterized by elevated intraocular pressure, typically experience no problems flying. Controlled cabin pressure does not usually cause an obvious rise in eye pressure for glaucoma patients. However, it is advisable for those with severe or uncontrolled glaucoma, or frequent flyers, to consult their eye care specialist. Primary concerns for glaucoma patients during flights often relate to maintaining medication schedules and managing dry eye symptoms, rather than direct pressure changes.
A significant restriction applies to individuals who have recently undergone eye surgery involving a gas bubble. Procedures like retinal detachment repair or vitrectomy often involve injecting a gas bubble to help the retina heal. This gas bubble can expand dramatically with changes in altitude, leading to a painful increase in intraocular pressure and potential severe damage. Patients are advised to avoid flying until the gas bubble has completely dissipated, which can take 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the gas type. If silicone oil was used instead of a gas bubble, flying is generally safe. It is essential to consult an ophthalmologist to confirm when it is safe to fly after any eye surgery, especially if gas or air bubbles were involved.
Tips for Eye Comfort During Flights
Maintaining eye comfort during air travel can enhance the flying experience. The cabin air is notably dry, with humidity levels often below 20%, which can lead to dry eyes. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after the flight helps the body produce sufficient tears to keep eyes moist.
Using lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can provide immediate relief for dryness and irritation. Carrying preservative-free drops in carry-on luggage ensures they are accessible. Blinking frequently helps spread the natural tear film, preventing dryness.
Wearing glasses instead of contact lenses can also be beneficial, as contacts can exacerbate dryness in the low-humidity cabin. Turning off the air conditioning vent directly above the seat can minimize dry air, and wearing a sleep mask during rest periods can help protect eyes from moisture loss.