Spring depicts new beginnings and fairer weather, but unfortunately, it is also synonymous with allergies. Spring growth creates the ideal atmosphere for seasonal allergies that can cause swollen eyes, headaches, and congestion.

The symptoms are uncomfortable, and they can negatively impact the quality of life. To deal effectively with seasonal eye allergies, you should focus on prevention and treatment of the symptoms. Here are ways to soothe eye allergies.

Avoiding the Allergens

The best way to reduce eye allergy symptoms is by limiting your exposure to the allergens. Preventive measures can help you protect your eye health. You can take some steps cleaning your home more often and checking pollen levels before you go outside.

Changing HVAC filters before turning on your system and keeping your windows closed can also help. Spring-clean your home before the weather gets too warm.

Avoid Wearing Contacts

If you experience eye allergies during spring, you might want to avoid wearing contact lenses. Wearing contact lenses can aggravate the symptoms of eye allergies. Switch to eyeglasses to protect your eyes. It is also a good idea to schedule an eye exam during this time. Apart from checking your glass prescription, you can learn ways to maintain your vision quality and comfort.

Using Prescription Eye Drops

Talk to your eye doctor about eye drops that will help reduce allergy symptoms. Some medicated eye drops can relieve the discomfort resulting from eye allergies. Antihistamine or decongestant eye drops can help reduce redness, itchiness, and other symptoms.

Artificial tears can help correct eye lubrication. Talk to the eye doctor about the best products to deal with your symptoms.

Rinsing With Saline Solution

Many people experience dry eyes or excess tearing due to seasonal allergies. The eyes may produce tears but still feel dry because of allergens. Eye irritation occurs due to airborne allergens meeting the eyeball.

Rinsing your eyes with a saline solution can minimize allergen exposure while also reducing the urge to rub the eyes. Rubbing the eyes makes the allergy symptoms worse.

Using a Cold Compress

Cold therapy can help reduce eye swelling, redness, and tenderness. The therapy helps provide soothing relief for eye symptoms while also improving the appearance of the skin. Use a soft cloth or a compress on the eye area. Soak the cloth in cool water and place it over the eyes. Refresh the compress with cool water several times.

Wearing Sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses when you go outdoors can help prevent allergens from getting into your eyes. Airborne allergens are present all around, and sunglasses can help keep them away from your eyes. Choose sunglasses with large lenses as they offer better protection.

Allergy Medications

Talk to your eye doctor about allergy medications to soothe your symptoms. You can use the prescription medication for short-term as well as long-term relief. Medications range from eye drops to oral antihistamines. It is vital to talk to your doctor before using eye drops and other medication for allergies.

For more ways to soothe eye allergies, visit Advanced Eyecare Center PC at our office in Urbandale, Iowa. You can call 515-303-4488 today to schedule an appointment.