Spring Time Allergies

Do you suffer from Swollen eyelids, watering, redness, itchiness? Get an Eye Exam from our Calgary Eye Doctor today near you in Calgary, Alberta

Allergies aren’t uncommon, statistics report that more than one-third of all people experience symptoms.  And as our eye doctor near you can attest, ocular allergies comprise a large number of allergic conditions.

If you think you are suffering from Eye Allergies, visit our Eye Clinic near you in Calgary, Alberta for treatment.

As we move towards spring, many of us eagerly anticipate the warmer weather, longer days, and blooming flowers.  However, for some individuals, the onset of spring also brings the unwelcome arrival of allergies, and can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including itchy and watery eyes.

Spring allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are caused by the release of pollen from trees, flowers, and grasses. When pollen particles come into contact with the eyes, they can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to symptoms such as itching, redness, watering, and even swollen eyelids. In this blog post, we'll explore five tips for managing these symptoms, as well as discuss ways that an eye doctor can help.

1. Limit Exposure to Allergens

The simplest way to manage allergy symptoms is to limit your exposure to allergens. Stay indoors when the pollen count is high, keep windows closed, and use an air purifier to filter out airborne allergens. You should also avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can further irritate them and exacerbate symptoms.

2. Avoid Rubbing Eyes

Rubbing your eyes can exacerbate symptoms as it can further release histamine and heighten the allergen response to the area.  Pollen and other environmental allergens can also be inadvertently be introduced to the eye and surrounding areas with contact by rubbing.

3. Cold Compresses

Applying a cold compress to your eyes can help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation and swelling.  Simply soak a clean washcloth in cold water, wring it out, and place it over your closed eyes for a few minutes.  Repeat as necessary throughout the day.

4. Oral Medications

Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as Claritin or Reactine, can be taken to reduce allergy symptoms, including those affecting the eyes.  These medications work by blocking the release of histamines, which cause allergic reactions.  However, it's important to speak with your doctor before taking any new medication, especially if you have other health conditions.

5. Visit an Eye Doctor

If your allergy symptoms persist or are particularly severe, it's important to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor. They can assess the severity of your symptoms, identify any underlying conditions, and recommend a personalized treatment plan.  Depending on your situation, this may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, or allergy shots.

An eye doctor can also provide advice on how to manage your symptoms on a day-to-day basis, as well as provide guidance on how to prevent allergies in the future. They may recommend measures such as washing your hands frequently, avoiding smoke and pollutants, and using a humidifier to keep the air in your home moist.  If needed we can also work with allergy specialists in the city and make necessary referrals for further workups for patients who suffer from severe or chronic allergies.

In conclusion, spring allergies can be a real nuisance, particularly when they affect your eyes. However, with proper management and the help of an eye doctor, you can minimize your symptoms and enjoy the warmer weather with clear and comfortable eyes. If you're experiencing allergy symptoms, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment at Foresight Eyecare, your Calgary eye doctor for eye exams and eye care

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• What are the common symptoms of OCULAR allergies?

  Excessive tearing, frequent eye rubbing, constant irritation especially in the corners of your eyes closest to the nose, lid swelling or puffy eyes, and red or pink eyes are some of the most common ocular allergy symptoms.

• What is meant by the term allergic conjunctivitis? Is that the same as “pink eye”?

  Allergic conjunctivitis is the clinical term of ocular inflammation of the lining or membrane of the eye, called the conjunctiva, caused by allergic reactions to substances. Although a patient may present with red or pink eyes from excess inflammation, the common term “pink eye” can signify a broad term of conditions and can be misleading, as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other irritating substances can cause redness resembling a “pink eye” Your eye doctor can differentiate between an allergy reaction and a true infection, which can lead to faster healing with proper treatments.

• 'I have seasonal allergies. How come my eyes are still itchy even after I take a Claritin pill?'

  You may need an anti-allergy eye drop to target the localize symptoms in and around the eye. Much of the time, oral anti-allergy medications are not that effective at treating the symptoms in the eye. In some cases, oral anti-allergy medications can cause dry eyes which then worsen the symptoms due to allergies. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, either over-the-counter or prescription-strength eye drops can be prescribed to provide relief. Visit our Eye Doctor today for a consultation.

• Why does allergy season affect my eyes?

  Environmental allergens released into the local environment from blooming grasses, trees and flowers can trigger an immune reaction.  Often this can manifest as excessive tearing, frequent eye rubbing, constant irritation especially in the corners of your eyes, lid swelling or puffy eyes, and red or pink eyes are some of the most common ocular allergy symptoms.