How to Relieve Eye Allergies During Allergy Season
Sneezing, an itchy throat, and a runny nose aren’t the only symptoms of seasonal allergies—your eyes can be just as affected. If you’re experiencing puffy, swollen, red, or itchy eyes, you may be dealing with allergic conjunctivitis, a common reaction to airborne allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander.
If your eyes are irritated during allergy season, here are some effective ways to get relief.
How to Soothe Allergy-Related Eye Irritation
1. Take an Antihistamine
The most effective way to manage allergy symptoms is to treat the allergy itself. Over-the-counter antihistamines help prevent your body from overreacting to allergens by blocking histamine, the substance responsible for allergy symptoms. Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, but there are non-drowsy formulations available.
2. Apply a Cool Compress
A cool compress can provide quick relief for swollen, itchy eyes. Simply wet a clean, lint-free cloth with cold water and hold it against your closed eyelids for five to ten minutes. This can help reduce inflammation and provide soothing relief.
3. Use Eye Drops
Eye drops can help flush out allergens and relieve irritation. Lubricating eye drops provide moisture and reduce the gritty sensation many people experience during allergy season, while antihistamine eye drops can stop the allergic reaction at the source.
4. Avoid the Allergen When Possible
The easiest way to prevent symptoms is to avoid the allergen whenever possible:
- Stay indoors during high pollen counts, especially in the morning and on windy days.
- If you’ve been outside, shower and change your clothes as soon as you get home to wash away lingering allergens.
5. Keep Your Home Allergy-Free
Your home should be a safe haven from allergens. During allergy season:
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering.
- Vacuum, dust, and mop frequently to remove allergens that make their way inside.
- Consider using an air purifier to reduce airborne irritants.
6. Give Your Contacts a Break
If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to glasses during allergy season. Contacts can trap allergens against your eyes, worsening irritation. If you must wear contacts, daily disposables may help reduce buildup.
7. Wear Sunglasses Outdoors
A simple but effective trick—sunglasses can act as a barrier against pollen and other airborne allergens. Larger, wraparound styles provide the most protection.
8. Visit Your Optometrist
If your eye allergy symptoms persist or worsen, schedule an appointment with your Edmonton optometrist. While allergies are common, similar symptoms can also indicate dry eye syndrome, infections, or other eye conditions. A professional ocular health exam can help determine if something other than allergies is causing your discomfort.
Comprehensive Eye Care in Edmonton
At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we are committed to helping you maintain healthy, comfortable vision year-round. Whether you need an ocular health exam, a pediatric eye exam, or routine vision care, our experienced optometrists are here to help.
Contact one of our Edmonton-area locations today to book an appointment and get the relief you need.
