Spring brings with its blooming flowers, warm weather, and... itchy, watery eyes. For many people, spring also brings seasonal allergies, and unfortunately, the eyes are often not spared.
So, let’s explore the connection between spring allergies and your eyes, including the main types of allergic conjunctivitis.
Seasonal: This type flares up during specific times of the year, often in response to airborne allergens like pollen.
Perennial: This type can occur year-round and is triggered by indoor allergens like dust mites or pet dander.
During spring, the main culprit behind itchy, red, and watery eyes is usually pollen. As plants release pollen for reproduction, it travels through the air and can easily come into contact with your eyes, triggering an allergic reaction. This reaction releases histamine, a chemical that causes inflammation and leads to those uncomfortable symptoms.
Finding Relief for Spring Eye Allergies
While there's no cure for allergies, there are several ways to manage symptoms and find relief:
Over-the-counter medications:
Antihistamine eye drops: These work by blocking histamine, the chemical responsible for inflammation. Lubricating eye drops: These artificial tears help soothe and moisturize irritated eyes.
It's important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any new medication, including over-the-counter remedies.
Cold compresses:
Apply a cool compress to your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
Eyelid hygiene:
Gently clean your eyelids regularly with lid scrubs or warm compresses to remove allergens and prevent further irritation.
Minimize allergen exposure: Here are some tips:
- Wear sunglasses outdoors, especially on windy days.
- Keep windows closed during peak pollen hours (usually mornings and evenings).
- Shower after spending time outside to remove pollen from your hair and skin.
- Change your clothes after being outdoors for extended periods
Sunglasses
Many people might be shocked to find that sunglasses play a significant role in reducing allergens in the eye not only for the individual but also for the community. As you know, sunglasses prevent allergenic particles act upon the eye. Furthermore, it's not uncommon for the sunglasses being worn to be oversized in comparison to regular eyeglasses therefore reduction of the light reaching the eyes is greatly enhanced. Have a pair of glasses that you always wear? Over-the-counter sunglasses are available at Elite Eye Care, New York.
Saline Rinse
Another element of this particular allergy is eye dryness. This is caused by a tear outage due to an allergy, which is caused by contact with an allergen. The inflammation or irritation is the result of the allergens present in the air which also get in contact with the eye. To counter this, a wash of saline can be applied if the eyes are already feeling irritated. This eye-cleaning technique can also help in the minimization of the urge to itch the eyes because rubbing the eyes with irritation brings about the release of histamine, thereby creating more redness and swelling.
Regular Face and hand washing
The allergens mostly come via the air and therefore, we should be aware that they also may stuck to our face from our hands and hair, when we wash them. Our frequent eye cleaning eliminates any remaining airborne irritants present in your eyes during the allergy season. During the process, the number of allergens on your skin and face will decrease, reducing the level of allergens in your eyes.
When to See a Doctor
If your symptoms are severe, don't improve with self-care measures, or you experience vision changes or unusual eye discharge, consult an eye care expert at Elite Eye Care, Bronx, New York. They will recommend medications, allergy testing, or other treatment options to manage your allergies and keep your eyes comfortable.
To summarize,
Spring allergies can be a nuisance, but by understanding the triggers, implementing these tips, and seeking professional help, you can enjoy the beauty of the season without suffering from itchy, watery eyes. Remember, a little preparation and awareness can go a long way in keeping your eyes feeling healthy and comfortable all spring long.
Bonus Tip: While there are some natural remedies advertised for eye allergies, it's crucial to consult an Optometrist in the Bronx, New York before trying any new methods. This ensures you avoid any probable risks or interactions with other medications you might be taking.