Eye Allergy Season is on the Way - Are You Prepared?

If you are experiencing red eyes, itchy eyes or watery eyes it could be due to pollen-induced eye allergies. For some, spring time is pollen season, marking the onset of uncomfortable symptoms such as red eyes, itchy eyes, stinging, burning and watery eyes. Seasonal eye allergies are often a result of an influx of pollen from trees and flowers into the air and can greatly inhibit quality of life for those that suffer from them.

How can you defend your eyes during pollen season? Well the most obvious answer would be to reduce contact with pollen which means staying indoors, in particular on days with a high pollen count. Keeping windows closed, cooling off with air conditioners and wearing wrap-around sunglasses when going outside can also help to protect your eyes from allergens in the atmosphere. A HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter can be used filter particles from the air inside your home or office.


Nevertheless, for the majority of us that can't stay indoors the entire spring season, certain medications can alleviate symptoms such as red eyes, watery eyes or itchy eyes. Often times a simple over-the-counter eye drop is enough to moisturize and alleviate itchy eyes or red eyes and flush out allergens. Medications containing antihistamines, decongestants or mast cell stabilizers are made to allay redness and swelling of the eyes and treat other symptoms such as congestion and sneezing. Eye drops often work better than pills or liquid medications to alleviate eye symptoms.


Individuals that wear contacts often have worse symptoms as a result of eye allergy season since irritants are more likely to stick to the surface of the lens, causing inflammation. This is compounded when oral antihistamines are taken which have a drying effect on the eyes. Contact lens wearers should make sure to keep their eyes lubricated and replace lenses on time. Many optometrists recommend switching to daily disposable contacts, because changing your contact lenses each day reduces the chances of buildup and irritation.


Most importantly, don't rub red, itchy eyes. Doing so can only exacerbate the inflammation. Due to the fact that some of the effective medications do require a prescription, if over-the-counter medications are not working for you, see your eye doctor.