Posted by: OptiVision Eye care in Uncategorized

Even though it’s wintertime, it’s still the perfect time to learn more about allergies and eye care so that you can be well-prepared to protect yourself and your eyes when pollen starts to fill the air along with the fragrances and colors of spring. It’s especially important that you properly educate yourself if your allergies are worse than the average.

Allergens

Some of the most common and irritating airborne allergens include:

  • Dust
  • Pet dander
  • Mold
  • Pollen

Even though you can take a decongestant or antihistamine to combat hay fever, which is a common allergic eye problem, it’s better that you do everything that you can to avoid exposing yourself to allergens in the first place. Since outdoor pollen levels are especially high during the morning time, it’s recommended that you simply remain indoors during that time.

Combating Allergens

If you have really bad eye allergies, it’s recommended that you visit an allergist so that you can know which allergens in particular give your eyes the most grief. During the afternoons and evenings it’s a good idea to keep the windows of your home open so that all of the dust isn’t trapped inside where it can irritate your eyes. Before you do so, make sure that you check the pollen levels to make sure you aren’t letting high amounts of pollen into your home. You’ll also want to make sure that the filters of your HVAC system are kept clean.

While outside, wear sunglasses and regular glasses to keep pollen from getting into your eyes. Try not to rub your eyes if you ever do get pollen in them so that you don’t irritate them any more than necessary. It’s also recommended that you clean the floors of your home with a damp rag or mop as opposed to sweeping or dry dusting so that you aren’t scattering dust and allergens everywhere.

Pets and Pollen

Pet owners who have allergies will want to make sure that they wash their hands after handling pets to keep from getting pet dander on their hands and possibly in their eyes when they touch their face. If you don’t have any pets but are allergic to them, you should remove and wash your clothes if you ever come in contact with pets at a friend’s house or anywhere else.

Individuals who live in areas with high humidity will want to be diligent about cleaning their bathroom, basement and kitchen in order to reduce to the chance of indoor mold from forming. If your eyes start to itch and you experience swelling from allergens, use a cool compress and artificial tears to protect your eyes.

Make sure that you and your eyes are prepared for the upcoming allergy season with proper eye care and medication.