When you venture into the backcountry, your eyes are exposed to various elements that can pose threats to your vision. From gusts of abrasive dirt to unexpected encounters with branches, it’s crucial to be prepared for potential eye issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to prevent and treat three common backcountry eye problems: dirt in your eye, a scraped eye, and red and itchy eyes.
Dirt In Your Eye: A Common Backcountry Nuisance
Problem: A gust blows abrasive specks of dirt and grit into your eye.
Treatment: If you find yourself with dirt in your eye, resist the urge to rub it, as this could scratch the cornea. Instead, immediately try to flush the grit out by applying a few drops of artificial tears, such as Bausch & Lomb lubricant eye drops (it’s advisable to keep a small bottle in your first-aid kit). If the grit persists, have a friend gently pull your eyelids out to check for particles. Carefully remove any specks with a moistened piece of gauze. If the speck is stubborn, lie on your back and have your buddy gently pour potable water into your open eye. Assess the situation after a few minutes and repeat until your vision returns to normal. If irritation persists, you may have a scratched eye.
Prevention: The best defense is prevention. Wear sunglasses, especially in arid or sandy areas, to shield your eyes from airborne particles.
Scraped Eye: Dealing with Unexpected Encounters
Problem: A branch whacks you in the face, scraping your eye and causing pain, blurry vision, and even bleeding.
Treatment: If a scratched eye is the result of a branch or similar incident, rinse the affected eye with potable water for several minutes. If irritation persists, loosely bandage the eye shut with tape and a folded piece of gauze. If the pain intensifies or doesn’t subside within about six hours, it’s crucial to hike out and seek professional medical attention from an eye doctor.
Prevention: Along with wearing sunglasses, maintaining a safe distance between you and the person ahead when hiking through wooded areas can prevent rebounding branches from causing injuries.
Red and Itchy Eyes: Recognizing and Addressing Infections
Problem: Two days into a trip, your eye turns red, itchy, and starts discharging pus.
Treatment: If symptoms are merely irritating and not painful, it may be acceptable to finish your trip and consult a doctor upon return. However, be cautious not to spread the infection; disinfect your hands frequently and avoid sharing snacks. If you experience vision changes, thick discharge, swelling, fever, and/or chills, it’s imperative to hike out and see a doctor promptly, as you may be dealing with a more serious infection, such as bacterial conjunctivitis.
Prevention: Practicing simple camp hygiene can protect against most illnesses, including eye infections. Always clean your hands with soap or an antibacterial gel before cooking and after using the restroom. Contact lens wearers should remove their lenses every night, store them in fresh cleaning solution, and allow their contact cases to air-dry thoroughly. Alternatively, consider using extended-wear contacts, which can be left in for up to seven days and nights in a pinch.
By staying vigilant, taking preventive measures, and knowing how to address common backcountry eye problems, you can safeguard your vision and fully enjoy your outdoor adventures.
