If you are experiencing red eyes, itchy eyes or watery eyes you may be suffering from seasonal eye allergies. For some, March is the start of pollen season, marking the onset of uncomfortable symptoms such as itchy eyes, watery eyes or stinging, red eyes. Spring eye allergies are largely due to the release of pollen from trees and flowers into the atmosphere and can cause a severe impact on everyday functioning for those that suffer from them.
How can you guard your eyes during allergy season? Whenever possible limit exposure to allergens by remaining inside, in particular on days with a high pollen count. Keeping windows closed, using air conditioners and putting on full-coverage sunglasses when going outside can also help to reduce exposure to irritants in the air. A HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter can be used clear particles from the air inside your home or office.
Since most of us must go outside on occasion, there are medications that can treat symptoms such as itchy eyes, red eyes or watery eyes. It's possible that a simple rewetting drop is sufficient to soothe and alleviate itchy eyes or red eyes and remove allergens. Medicines containing antihistamines, decongestants or mast cell stabilizers are made to allay irritation of the eyes and treat other symptoms such as cold-like symptoms. Eye drops are sometimes recommended because they can work better than pills or liquid medications to treat eye symptoms.
Individuals that wear contact lenses sometimes experience greater discomfort from eye allergies since irritants tends to enter the eye and accumulate on the exterior of the lens, causing inflammation. Further, oral antihistamines can dry out the eyes, compounding the situation. Contact lens wearers should make sure to keep their eyes moist and replace lenses as directed. Many eye care professionals suggest the use of daily disposable lenses, because replacing your contacts daily lessens the opportunity for allergens to build up.
When you are suffering from red, itchy eyes, don't rub them. This can only increase the inflammation. Due to the fact that often products that work to alleviate symptoms do require a prescription, if over-the-counter options are not working for you, see your optometrist.