Spring is here.  We've all been waiting anxiously for the weather to clear up and spring to arrive, and it’s finally here! However, spring weather comes with the frustration of eye allergies for some. Here’s our advice on combating the flare-ups of eye allergies in the springtime...

• Pinpoint the problem first. Verify that the arrival of allergens like pollen is what’s exacerbating your eye issues—if the problem is a new eyedrop, contact lens solution, type of makeup, new pet, etc, it can be treated differently.  An excellent resource is the website pollen.com, which gives daily and weekly pollen index forecasts.  It also gives information on what particular species of plants or trees are currently the worst offenders. 

• Sunglasses are a great way to protect your eyes from the many allergens floating around in the spring. Take other measures like keeping your car windows rolled up and staying indoors during high pollen count times (such as early evening).

• Antihistamines and decongestants are also helpful in combating your allergies. Schedule an appointment and ask about what we recommend for your particular situation—in some cases you may need prescription-strength antihistamine eye drops or even a prescription steroid drop for particularly rough stretches during the year.  Often, oral OTC antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Claritin, etc, may be beneficial, however, keep in mind that these medications can dry out the eyes, trading one issue (allergies) for another (dryness).  Artificial tears typically work well when taking an oral antihistamine.

• Adjust how you clean. Sweeping and even vacuuming can stir up dust mites and other allergens, while using a wet mop on surface areas that aren’t carpeted will help contain the problem. Wash your bedding more frequently as well.

• Keep your hands away from your eyes. Rubbing them will only irritate your symptoms, making your discomfort worse in the long run. Your eyes are anatomically designed to channel your tears toward the corner of your eyes by your nose, which explains why this area becomes extra itchy when the pollen in the tears collects there.

 Living in north Texas, pollen and allergies are a fact of life for many of us, but we hope that you can get out and enjoy the spring with less swelling, redness, and itching!