Allergies cause your body to react poorly to irritants like pollen or dust. For many people, these symptoms affect the eyes in particular.
Swelling, redness, itchiness, and irritation are just a few of the problems allergies can cause. However, these symptoms are very similar to those caused by dry eye syndrome.
If you already experience dry eye syndrome, allergies may worsen your symptoms. Keep reading to learn what you can do if allergies are irritating your eyes!
Use Artificial Lubricating Eye Drops
Eye drops are an excellent method to improve allergies and dry eye syndrome symptoms. They moisturize the eyes while also flushing out allergens.
Many people with allergies tend to want to rub their eyes. Rubbing your eyes will not help reduce your irritation and can even make the problem worse.
When rubbing your eyes, you may introduce bacteria, dirt, or more allergens from your hands, which can cause damage to your eyes. Artificial lubricating eye drops can help provide relief.
There are different types of eye drops available, and your eye doctor will help you determine which are the best for you. When using artificial lubricating eye drops, make sure to wash your hands first and avoid touching your eye with the tip of the bottle.
Try Antihistamines
Allergies are caused by the release of chemicals called histamines. These trigger the itchy, uncomfortable symptoms in your body.
If you are suffering from allergies and not dry eye syndrome, antihistamines may help improve your symptoms by countering the histamines in your body.
However, it is important to pay attention to the side effects of the allergy medication you use. You don’t want the medicine to be worse than the problem.
Protect Your Home From Allergens
Pollen, pet dander, and dust can accumulate in your home if you are not careful. Try to keep your house clean and wipe down surfaces with a wet cloth often.
Using a damp cloth instead of a standard duster will prevent allergens from becoming airborne while you clean. If you experience seasonal allergies, try to keep your windows closed as much as possible.
You can also invest in an air purifier to collect allergens right from the air. It’s best to keep it in the space you spend most of your time.
Keep Track Of The Pollen Count
Your local weather website should have information on the pollen count. When it is exceptionally high, opt to stay indoors.
Pollen counts peak at different times depending on what kind of plant is producing the pollen. Take note of what times seem to be worse for you so you can plan out days you need to be outside.
Talk To Your Eye Doctor
In some cases, at-home remedies may not adequately improve symptoms. For this reason, you should book an appointment with your eye doctor at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Garden City, New York.
Since allergy symptoms can present similar symptoms to dry eye, it is important to determine the root cause of your symptoms. Once your eye doctor determines what is causing your symptoms, they will be able to create a treatment plan to improve them.
Are you experiencing eye irritation? Schedule an appointment at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Garden City, NY, today!
