Do you suffer from seasonal spring allergies? While many people love the change in scenery as flowers bloom and the weather warms up, it can be an unwelcome change for those with allergies. Allergies can cause a lot of ocular discomfort. Classic symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis are red, watery, itchy eyes. Below are some tips to help alleviate these symptoms (seasonal spring allergies) so you can enjoy the season more comfortably:
- Lubricate your eyes frequently with a preservative-free artificial tear. This will help to wash out allergens from your eyes.
- Contact lenses can hold on to allergens. If you’re a contact lens wearer, start using a daily disposable contact lens so you’re starting each day with a fresh, sterile contact lens.
- Use cool compresses. Wet a clean washcloth with water, stick it into a new ziplock bag and keep it in the fridge or freezer. Use that washcloth whenever your eyes are uncomfortable. Remember to keep it clean!
- There are many over-the-counter allergy medications; they are not all equal! I recommend using Pataday, Alaway, or Zaditor. One of the ways these medications work is preventative- so if you wake up in the morning feeling fine, but KNOW your allergies will act up later, use a drop!
- Wash your hands frequently and face/hair daily to wash away allergens.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes! Keep some preservative-free artificial tears in the fridge. When you get an urge to rub your eyes, use those cool drops instead.
If these steps aren’t enough to manage your allergy symptoms, schedule a visit so we can find other treatment options for you!
Dr. Rheela Kim