Going to High Altitude with Preexisting Ocular Conditions

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to review how preexisting ocular conditions may be affected by altitude exposure. Such preexisting conditions include dry eye problems, monocular visual loss, and potential problems following refractive surgery procedures, as well as the possible changes associated with some forms of retinal and optic nerve diseases. Although most such altitude-related visual difficulties are relatively minor, some have resulted in serious morbidity or even death at high altitude. This review will give the reader background regarding these potentially debilitating conditions in order to better prepare for exposure to high altitude environments.