The sun is shining, the bees are buzzing, and the flowers are in bloom: spring has officially sprung and summer is well within our sights. While the warmer temperatures and beautiful blossoms are a welcome change, these surefire signs of spring can also mean the onset of itchy, red, and watery eyes brought on by seasonal allergies.
When our bodies are exposed to allergens (usually pollen in the springtime), they can overreact, sending a flood of immune system cells to fight it and ushering in these bothersome eye allergies. Here a few steps to preventing, treating, and finding relief from eye allergy symptoms this spring:
-Don’t rub your eyes. When you rub your eyes, the immune system cells release more histamine, which causes the reaction to heighten. Though it may feel good, rubbing your eyes will only worsen the irritation.
-Don’t overuse over the counter drops for redness. Chronic use of drops meant to relieve redness can actually make your eyes more red.
-Do apply a cold compress to alleviate swelling as needed. It also helps itching.
-Do run your air conditioner. Make sure it is properly filtered and clean.
-Do use an air purifier to help remove pollens from the air.
-Do avoid morning walks or outdoor activities during early morning hours when the pollen count is higher. Wait until midday when the sun burns off pollen in the air.
-Do see your ilumin ophthalmologist who can prescribe the appropriate eye drops, if necessary, to help alleviate your symptoms.
