Long hours on the road can be draining, both physically and mentally, leaving your eyes tired and your vision strained. Caring for your eyes can help ensure that you get to your destination safely. Here are some tips to keep your peepers at their best.
Preparing for the Drive
Shield your eyes. Invest in high-quality sunglasses with anti-reflective and polarized lenses, which will reduce glare from oncoming headlights and sun and improve overall clarity. The American Academy of Ophthalmology offers this handy guide to help you choose the best sunglasses.
Ensure good visibility. To improve your visibility and reduce eye strain, make sure that your headlights are clear and that the bulbs are working properly. Keep your windshield and mirrors clean and clear as well. If you wear glasses, make sure to clean the lenses and remove any smudges or dirt.
During the Drive
Take a break. Pull over every few hours for a 10-minute rest. Get out of the vehicle to stretch your legs and focus on distant objects to give your eyes a break.
Use your sun visor. Your sun visor can help block bright light from the sun.
Take care of dry eyes. When taking a break, you can apply a washcloth soaked in warm water to closed eyes to refresh them. You can also keep artificial tears handy and use drops when it is safe to do so.
Wear your prescription glasses. Choosing your glasses over contacts can reduce eye dryness. Wearing your glasses will also reduce eye strain. If you don’t wear your prescription eyewear and are pulled over, you risk being fined and could also have your CDL revoked.
Fuel for Your Eyes
Pack healthy snacks. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, such as carrots, oranges, nuts, and leafy greens, can promote good vision and help protect your eyes from damage.
Consume omega-3s. Fish like salmon and tuna provide omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in maintaining healthy vision and reduce dry eyes.
Limit junk foods. Sugary and processed foods can cause inflammation in the body and even in your eyes. Stick to whole, unprocessed foods and avoid excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate you further.
Drink plenty of water. Drinking water throughout the day can help keep you hydrated, which is important for producing tears that will moisturize your eyes.
Attend Regular Checkups
Schedule eye exams. Keep up to date on your annual eye checkups. This is crucial for detecting early signs of vision problems that could impact your driving safety.
Talk to your doctor. If you experience persistent eye discomfort, blurry vision, or headaches, consult your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
By following these tips, you can navigate the miles with clear vision and confidence, making your journey comfortable and safe.
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