Do you suffer from eye allergies?
Red, itchy, watery eyes are the distinctive signs for eye allergies. These symptoms are normally caused by the same harmless substances such as pollen, mold, dust and pet dander that cause sneezing and a runny nose among seasonal allergy sufferers.
Eye allergies can also be caused by reactions to cosmetics or eye drops.
To get relief, there are a number of things that can help:
- The best approach is to do whatever you can to limit your exposure to the allergens you are sensitive to. For example, on days when there is a high pollen count, stay indoors as much as you can. When you do go outside, wearing wrap around sunglasses help shield your eyes and drive with your windows closed.
- Remove your contacts, contacts can attract airborne allergens. Using daily disposable contact lenses will help reduce the build up of allergens on your lenses or try wearing eye glasses.
- Protect your eyes from airborne allergens by wearing wraparound style sunglasses
- Don’t run your eyes if they itch! (easier said than done sometimes). Rubbing releases more histamine and makes your allergy worse.
- Use eye drops – if your symptoms are mild an over the counter eye drop may work well for you. If your symptoms are more severe, speak to your optometrist about prescription eye drops that will help relieve the symptoms.
- Shower before bedtime to clean your eyelids and remove any pollen that may cause irritation during the night.
- Consider purchasing an air purifier for your home.
- Antihistamines, decongestants and prescription medication can also help, seek professional advice if necessary.