Spring has sprung, and with it comes beautiful, warm, sunny days with spring showers that wash the smog from the air. The scent of freshly blooming blossoms on the air can but lovely, but as the days start getting warmer and the world comes alive again, many people begin to associate those blossoming trees and bushes with the onset of seasonal allergies.
Among the various symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itching skin, is the extremely aggravating symptom of red and itchy eyes. The same allergens that cause the other symptoms can cause the eyes and eyelids to become red, puffy, itchy, and watery. One of the most common forms of eye allergies is seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, which is caused by pollen from plants. The good news is that there are many steps you can take to find some relief from itchy eye allergies.
Although the temptation to rub the eyes may be strong when they are itching so badly, it is important to remember that rubbing your eyes can introduce germs into your system and can also damage the eyes. Frequent eye rubbing can lead to pink eye and even keratoconus over time. Instead, try one of the following remedies:
Wash After Coming Inside
You may notice that you are relatively comfortable when spending time outside, but begin to experience severe allergies the instant you come inside and sit down on the couch. This may be because pollen attaches to your clothing and is disturbed when you sit down. Before relaxing after time outside, change into a fresh set of clothes, and wash your face and hands to remove any allergens that have stuck to your eyelashes or skin.
Oral or Topical Antihistamines
Antihistamines can be extremely helpful when battling eye allergies. The same medications that can be used for other allergies can be used to treat itching eyes. If itchy eyes are your only symptom, you can try using eye drops. These can be found over-the-counter or can be prescribed by your eye doctor.
Cold, Wet Towel
For immediate relief, you can try using a wet towel to get rid of the itching. Simply take a clean washcloth, soak it in cold water, and place it over your eyes. This can help to soothe swollen eyes while providing the added benefit of preventing any additional allergens from reaching your face and eyes. Providing yourself with a small break can help to alleviate the cumulative effect that constant exposure to allergens can have on your eyes.
Allergy Shots for a Long Term Solution
If eye allergies are a yearly problem for you and if they have a severe impact on your life, you can consider allergy shots for a long-term solution. Allergy shots involve going to the allergy doctor up to several times per week to receive individualized injections. These shots are generally made of less potent forms of the allergens to help your body build up a resistance to them over time.
Warning Signs
Although some symptoms can be managed from home, it is important to pay attention to your eyes and to contact your doctor if there are any warning signs of more serious problems. These warning signs include feeling as though there is a foreign object in the eye, blurred vision, worsening vision, or pain. Persistent eye allergies are a reason for a visit to the optometrist.