Managing Eye Allergies: Tips for Relief

Have you ever had that gritty, itchy feeling in your eyes? It’s a feeling that can make even the simplest things feel like a huge challenge. If you frequently rub your eyes, you may have eye allergies. This happens when your body reacts to things like pollen or dust.

Start with Preservative-Free Tears

Preservative-free artificial tears can offer you some quick relief. These over-the-counter eye drops help wash away allergens and add some soothing moisture. If you wear contact lenses, look for a brand made for sensitive eyes. You can use them several times a day for long-lasting comfort.

Use a Cool Compress for Relief

A cool compress is such a simple way to ease the swelling and itching. Take a clean cloth and run it under some cold water. Then, gently place that cool cloth over your closed eyes. Just leave it there for about 10 or 15 minutes to help calm the irritation.

Please, Do Not Rub Your Eyes

It is so tempting to rub your eyes when they feel itchy, but it just makes things worse. Rubbing can spread allergens around and irritate your eyes even more. Instead, try gently rinsing your eyes with some cool water. Using eye drops is also a great way to flush out any allergens. This is a much gentler way to find some relief.

Wear Sunglasses When You Go Outdoors

Wearing sunglasses is one of the easiest ways to protect your eyes from allergens. They act as a physical barrier against all the pollen and dust in the air. Sunglasses also help a lot with bright sunlight. That bright sun can feel especially painful on those high-pollen days.

Keep Those Windows Closed

During allergy season, it is important to keep your windows closed. This is especially true in the morning when pollen counts are at their highest. If you can, use air conditioning at home and in your car to keep the air clean and cool. Just remember to clean your filters often. Dirty filters can add more allergens to your indoor air.

Change Clothes and Shower When You Get Home

It is a smart idea to shower and change into fresh clothes after spending time outside. This simple habit will wash away any lingering allergens. It also prevents them from spreading throughout your home.

Try Antihistamine Eye Drops

If your eyes are constantly itching, antihistamine eye drops can offer a lot of help. You can buy them over the counter, and they can offer you some quick relief. Just be a little careful not to use them for more than a few days in a row. Using them for too long may cause even more redness. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Keep Your Home a Safe Place from Allergens

Making a habit of keeping your home clean can help reduce indoor allergens. Vacuum your floors often with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. This will trap dust and pet dander. You should also wash your bedding in hot water once a week. You can also use special allergen-proof pillow covers if you have pets.

Stay Hydrated and Get Enough Sleep

Staying hydrated is crucial for your entire body, and it also benefits your eyes. Drinking enough water helps thin out the body’s mucus. This makes it a little easier for your body to flush out allergens. Hydration also helps your body’s natural ability to produce tears. Tears help keep your eyes feeling moist and comfortable throughout the day.

For more on managing eye allergies, visit You & Eyes. Our offices are in Orlando and Winter Garden, Florida. Call (407) 658-6580 or (407) 377-7632 to book an appointment today.

https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/eye-allergy/

https://www.webmd.com/allergies/eye-allergies