As many of us eagerly embrace the warmth and beauty of the season, for some, summer’s arrival also means the onset of pesky allergies. Eye allergies can range from minor annoyances to wreaking havoc on our eyes. If you find yourself rubbing your itchy, watery eyes more often during this time of year, you’re not alone.
Seasonal eye allergies, triggered by various environmental factors, are a common concern for many individuals. Let’s delve into what causes these allergies, how to recognise them, and most importantly, how to manage them effectively.
Understanding Eye Allergies
Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the eyes react to allergens in the environment. Common triggers include pollen, mould spores, pet hair, dust mites, and even certain cosmetics. When these allergens come into contact with your eyes, the body’s immune system responds by releasing histamines, leading to inflammation and a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Recognising the Symptoms of Eye Allergies
Much like other ailments and allergies, symptoms of eye allergies can vary from person to person. However, there are a few usual suspects to watch out for, including:
- Itchy, red, or watery eyes
- Swelling around the eyes
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially during peak allergy seasons, it’s essential to address them promptly to prevent further discomfort and potential complications. Additionally, it may be worthwhile checking in with your doctor if the issues persist or book an eye examination to rule out any eye-related problems.
Strategies for Minimising Discomfort
Eye issues of any kind can be problematic, to say the least, as they impair not only your vision but also your ability to get on with your daily life comfortably and safely. For this reason, it’s essential to do your best to minimise the discomfort caused by seasonal eye allergies. Methods of reducing eye allergy discomfort include the following:
Don’t Rub Your Eyes
When you’re dealing with the symptoms of eye allergies, such as itchy and puffy eyes, your instincts will tell you to rub them. While this may initially feel like a solution, it can actually make symptoms worse. So, it’s important to avoid doing this as you’ll likely increase the itchiness and feelings of discomfort.
However, if you have rubbed your eyes and worsened the discomfort, all is not lost! When your eyes are itchy, red, or irritated, it helps to bathe them in cold water. So whether you’ve rubbed them or are simply suffering from regular symptoms, a cold compress can offer instant relief.
Limit Exposure to Allergens
Try to avoid outdoor activities, particularly during early mornings and windy days when pollen counts are high. Keeping windows closed and using air conditioning can also help reduce indoor exposure to allergens.
Protect Yourself With Eyewear
If you’re dealing with allergies like hay fever, make sure you wear glasses or sunglasses when you’re outdoors. Glasses provide a layer of protection from pollen, especially wrap-around designs that prevent direct and indirect exposure. Additionally, sunglasses or tinted eyeglasses also help protect your eyes from the sun, so if it’s sunny and you have allergies it’s a win-win solution.
Avoid Contact Lenses If Possible
Although many people prefer contact lenses for their day-to-day activities, those with eye allergies should avoid wearing them. Contact lenses can increase eye irritation and the effects and appearance of allergy symptoms, which is especially relevant if you suffer from hay fever. Instead, try glasses!
Eye Drops
Over-the-counter or prescription eye drops containing antihistamines or mast cell stabilisers can help relieve itchy, irritated, and dry eyes caused by eye allergies by washing allergens out of the eyes. When used correctly, eye drops can provide a lot of relief while keeping eye allergies and dry eyes at bay for longer. Remember, always check your drops are specifically formulated and if you’re able to use them with contact lenses.
Keep Your Eyes Clean
Regularly washing your hands and avoiding rubbing your eyes is simple yet crucial advice for eye allergies. As mentioned earlier, your instinct is to rub your eyes in an attempt to alleviate symptoms, but it can make things a lot worse—even more so if you have allergens and debris on your hands.
Additionally, it’s important to wash your bedding, sheets and pillowcases weekly to kill dust mites and remove allergens. The same can be said for clothing, particularly outdoor wear, to further reduce your contact with allergens.
Healthy Body, Healthy Eyes
Although dietary intake may not have been among your predicted solutions for eye allergies, every little helps when it comes to your body. A balanced diet and sufficient hydration help to boost your immune system while reducing the severity of allergies and their symptoms.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can also help reduce inflammatory reactions associated with allergies.
Consultation with Optometrist
If your symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, it’s crucial to seek professional help. An optometrist can assess your condition, prescribe appropriate medications, and recommend further treatment options tailored to your needs.
Enhance Your Eye Health With Reynolds and Slater Opticians
Don’t let seasonal eye allergies put a damper on your summer plans. By understanding common triggers, recognising symptoms early, and implementing effective treatments, you can enjoy the sunny days ahead with clear, comfortable vision.
Manage your allergies this summer with expert advice from Reynolds and Slater Opticians. If you begin experiencing symptoms we’ve mentioned or simply want to check your eyes are otherwise healthy, book an appointment today.
