Allergies can wreak havoc on your eyes, causing discomfort, redness, and itching. With spring and summer bringing high pollen counts, knowing how to protect your eyes from allergens while enjoying the outdoors is essential.
At ReFocus Eye Health, we provide top-notch eye care to the Manchester community. Here's how you can safeguard your eyes and how our services can help manage and treat allergy-related eye issues.
Allergens and Their Impact on Your Eyes
A reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander causes eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis. When these allergens come into contact with the conjunctiva (the transparent membrane covering the white part of your eye), they trigger an immune response. This response releases histamines and other chemicals, leading to symptoms like:
- Redness
- Itching
- Watery eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- A burning sensation
Practical Tips to Protect Your Eyes
Wear Sunglasses
High-quality sunglasses shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and act as a barrier against airborne allergens. For maximum protection, opt for wraparound styles. Our optical shop offers a wide selection of prescription and non-prescription sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Avoid Touching Your Eyes
Allergens can transfer from your hands to your eyes, exacerbating symptoms. Wash your hands frequently and resist the urge to rub your eyes.
Use Protective Eyewear
Wear protective eyewear when mowing the lawn, gardening, or participating in outdoor activities to prevent allergens from entering your eyes.
Keep Windows Closed
During high pollen days, close windows in your home and car to reduce exposure. Use air conditioning to filter out allergens.
Stay Indoors During Peak Pollen Times
Pollen counts are usually highest in the morning and on windy days. Plan outdoor activities for late afternoon or after rain when pollen levels are lower.
Shower After Being Outdoors
Pollen can stick to your skin, hair, and clothes. Take a shower and change clothes after spending time outside to remove allergens.
Use Artificial Tears
Artificial tears can help rinse away allergens and soothe irritated eyes. Avoid eye drops that promise to remove redness, as they can worsen symptoms over time.
Find Effective Relief at ReFocus Eye Health
We provide comprehensive services to manage and treat eye allergies. Our thorough eye exams assess vision and detect signs of allergies and other conditions. Personalized treatment plans, tailored to each patient, often include prescription eye drops to alleviate symptoms.
We use advanced diagnostic tools to identify allergy causes and recommend the best treatment options. Additionally, we offer specialized treatments for dry eye syndrome, which often accompanies allergies, providing relief and improving overall eye comfort.
Protecting your eyes from outdoor allergens is crucial for maintaining good eye health and comfort. By following these tips and seeking professional care at our Manchester clinic, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without the discomfort of eye allergies. Schedule an appointment with us and let our team help you achieve clear, comfortable vision.