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Eye Allergies
Posted by: Scott and Christie Eyecare Associates in Conditions
It is estimated that about 50 million Americans have seasonal allergies. With allergy season knocking on our door, Scott & Christie Eyecare Associates wants you to understand what causes your allergies and how to relieve yourself from dry, itchy, red eyes.
WHAT CAUSES EYE ALLERIGIES:
Normally harmless substances that cause problems for individuals who are predisposed to allergic reactions are called allergens. The most common airborne allergens that cause eye allergies are pollen, mold, dust and pet dander.
EYE ALLERGY RELIEF:
Avoid Allergens- The best approach to controlling your eye allergy symptoms is to do everything you can to limit your exposure to common allergens you are sensitive to. For example, on days when the pollen count is high, stay indoors as much as possible, with the air conditioner running to filter the air. Use high quality furnace filters that can trap common allergens and replace the filters frequently.
Removing your contacts– Because the surface of contact lenses can attract and accumulate airborne allergens, consider wearing only eyeglasses during allergy season. Or consider switching to daily disposable contacts that you discard after a single use to avoid the build-up of allergens and other debris on your lenses.
Over-the counter eye drops– Because eye allergies are so common, there are a number of brands of non-prescription eye drops available that are formulated to relieve itchiness, redness and watery eyes caused by allergies. If your eye allergy symptoms are relatively mild, over-the-counter eye drops for allergy relief may work very well for you and may be less expensive than prescription eye drops or other medication. Ask your eye doctor to recommend a brand to try.
We hope that this will help you with your seasonal allergies. You can visit us at our Pittsburgh or Cranberry location if you have any questions. Or feel free to contact us at either location. Here are Scott & Christie Eyecare Associates, your eye sight is our vision.
