While many associate eye allergies with the arrival of spring, just as many people suffer during the autumn as well. Above nasal symptoms such as sneezing and congestion, symptoms that affect the eyes are often the primary source of discomfort.
When suffering from allergies, the eyes are often itchy, puffy, and red and often sting or tear. Often vision becomes blurry or eyes become sensitive to light. These symptoms can make it so uncomfortable for those affected that they prohibit an individual's ability to perform in work, school, sports and leisure activities.
For contact lens wearers symptoms can often be worse since contact lenses can often collect pollen. In addition, when our eyes itch, our first instinct is to rub them which can cause even more discomfort for contact users. Contact lens wearers experiencing eye allergies often find themselves using rewetting drops more frequently or even restricting the use of their contacts or primarily wearing eyeglasses. If you wear contacts and experience ocular allergies, you may want to consider a different brand of contacts, particularly if you aren't using daily disposables which reduce the likelihood of allergen accumulation. If you are experiencing problems from your contacts, visit our Rye Brook, NY eye care practice to talk to a professional about your options.
Regardless of whether you wear contacts or not, here are a few tips to reduce exposure and symptoms of autumn eye allergy discomfort:
- Check the area pollen count and remain indoors when counts are high, particularly at peak times such as midday.
- Keep windows closed when possible, especially when driving.
- Clean carpets and curtains frequently to remove allergens that have entered the house.
- Clean floors with a damp mop rather than a broom which tends to stir up rather than get rid of allergens.
- Try not to rub your eyes. Use a cool compress for soothing irritation or itchiness.
- Take a shower each night to remove any pollen you may have collected throughout the day.
While over the counter medications and eye drops can sometimes help relieve symptoms, you may need something stronger. In this case, make a visit to your optometrist now to talk about your options and begin proper treatment. Our Rye Brook, NY eye care practice would be happy to help you in regaining your comfort this fall!