Allergy season is upon us and many of us are experiencing that seasonal struggle with their eyes.
The good news today, however, is the availability of treatments and self-help strategies to ease the symptoms. Here are some tips to help you cope:
Steer Clear: Minimize or eliminate contact with allergy triggers. For example, stay indoors when pollen counts are at their peak (midmorning and early evening) or when it’s really windy outside.
Stay Cool: Holding a clean face cloth soaked in ice-cold water over closed eyes for 5-10 minutes will reduce itchiness.
Faux tears: Non-prescription artificial tear eye drops can provide relief, especially if they are stored in the refrigerator to keep them cold.
Squeaky Clean: Clean floors with a damp rag or mop rather than dry dusting or sweeping.
Be a Star: When heading outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to help prevent pollen from blowing into your eyes.
Dust buster: Keep furnace filters and air conditioners clean to keep mites and dust at bay. Lock it out: Close your car windows when driving.
Dispose of lenses: Pollen sticks to moist surfaces and contact lenses are one of them. Switch to daily disposables during allergy season.
Curb the urge: Don’t rub or touch your eye, this will only make it worse.
Talk to your doctor of optometry: If symptoms persist or get worse, book an appointment to learn about treatments that are best suited to you.
