Eye allergies or allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by red, itching, burning, and tearing eyes. The condition that affects millions of individuals occurs seasonally, but it can also be an all-year-round issue. 

 

Both children and adults suffer from eye allergies, with some experiencing more severe symptoms than others. Effective treatment will depend on the type of allergy, the triggers, and the specific individual. Here are seven ways to soothe eye allergies. 

 

Avoid Rubbing the Eyes

It is tempting to rub the eyes when they feel itchy, but you need to avoid it as much as possible. Rubbing the eyes triggers the release of inflammatory chemicals that worsen allergy symptoms. 

Try to avoid wearing eye makeup, as this might cause eyelid irritation. Glasses will also be more comfortable than contact lenses. Applying a cold compress over the eyes can help soothe the eyes and relieve symptoms. 

 

Avoid Outdoor Triggers

If your allergy symptoms begin to act up during spring, avoiding outdoor triggers can help soothe the eyes. Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds trigger seasonal allergies. Monitoring pollen counts will help you determine the outdoor conditions. 

Avoid going outdoors when the pollen count is high. Wearing sunglasses while outdoors can help reduce contact with allergens. 

Avoid Indoor Triggers

Soothe eye allergies by avoiding indoor allergy triggers. Avoid using window fans that can bring pollen-laden air and other allergens into the home. Clean your home regularly to get rid of dust and mold. 

Change your clothes when you come into the home to avoid transferring outdoor allergens inside. Keep pets out of the bedroom to avoid pet dander, and clean your bedding as often as possible. 

Manage Dust Mites

Dust mites are a common cause of eye allergies. There are things that you can do to reduce your exposure to these allergens. Encasing your beddings with mite-proof covers can reduce exposure, helping prevent eye allergies. Use hot water to clean your bedding, and make sure to vacuum the carpet frequently if you have one. Wipe the furniture as often as you can. 

Get Rid of Mold

Mold tends to grow in specific rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. You can prevent the growth of mold by reducing indoor humidity. Use a humidifier in the damp areas to reduce moisture levels. Ensure you have proper ventilation in the rooms and do not allow any mold to grow. Install a HEPA filter that can trap mold spores.

Use Eye Drops

Using eye drops can help soothe eye allergies. Different eye drops contain ingredients that help treat different types of allergies. Mast cell stabilizers and antihistamines can help prevent the release of the compounds that cause the symptoms. Some drops help keep the eyes lubricated. Talk to your eye doctor about the best eye drops for your condition. 

Use Allergy Medication

Some pills, capsules, and liquid medications can help soothe eye allergy symptoms. It is vital to consult your doctor before using any medication. Immunotherapy or allergy shots can also help deal with eye allergy symptoms. Wash your hands regularly to avoid introducing allergic substances to the eyes. 

For more ways to soothe eye allergies, contact Insight Eyecare at our office in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can call (702) 718-7163 today to schedule an appointment.