Combatting Eye Allergies

Spring has sprung! Along with the blooming trees, flowers, and the return of green grass comes allergies. For many, allergies don’t just stop at sneezing and sniffling—they also affect the eyes, causing redness, itchiness, watering, and swelling.

Recently, The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology estimated that 50 million people in the United States have seasonal allergies, and its prevalence is increasing, affecting up to 30 percent of adults and up to 40 percent of children.

In some cases, eye allergies can play a role in conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other eye infections.

If you think you have eye allergies, here are a few helpful tips on how to get eye allergy relief:

How to Treat Eye Allergies

Avoid Allergens

Limiting your exposure to allergens is the best approach to controlling your seasonal eye allergies. For example, when the pollen count is high, stay indoors as much as possible, with the air conditioner running to filter the air. Using high-quality filters that can trap common allergens and replacing those filters frequently can also help keep allergens at bay inside your home.

Outdoor Precautions

When you go outdoors during allergy season, consider wearing wraparound sunglasses to help shield your eyes from the allergens and keep the windows in your vehicle. These small measures can significantly reduce exposure and provide substantial eye allergy relief.

Contact Lens Care

If you wear contact lenses, consider removing them. The surface of contact lenses can attract and accumulate airborne allergens, contributing to increased irritation. Switching to daily disposable lenses that you discard after a single use can help, and wearing glasses until the allergens are gone would ensure no extra irritation with contact lenses.

Allergy Eye Drops

Try over-the-counter allergy eye drops. Since seasonal eye allergies are so common, several over-the-counter allergy eye drops are available that are designed to relieve itchiness, redness, and other symptoms caused by allergies. Make sure to select eye drops specifically formulated for allergies to achieve effective eye allergy relief.

Natural Remedies and Other Tips

Cold Compress

Using a cold compress can help reduce swelling and soothe irritated eyes. Apply a cold, damp washcloth over your closed eyes for a few minutes to relieve eye allergy quickly.

Maintain Cleanliness

Keeping your living environment clean by regularly dusting and vacuuming can also help manage seasonal eye allergies. Ensure your bedding is washed frequently to remove any allergens that may have settled.

Hydration and Nutrition

Staying well-hydrated and consuming a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and vegetables can help reduce allergy symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseed can also support eye health and offer relief from eye allergies.

Consult a Specialist

If you think you have eye allergies and cannot find relief, give us a call today at The Kelly Eye Center to schedule an appointment! We can provide personalized advice on how to treat eye allergies effectively, ensuring that your symptoms are managed and you can enjoy the season without discomfort.

By following these tips and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the discomfort associated with seasonal eye allergies and find substantial eye allergy relief. Don’t let allergies dampen your spring—take control and enjoy the season to its fullest!