Allergies
Allergies can cause eye irritation, redness, itching, and watering. Treatment may include the use of antihistamine medications and avoiding exposure to allergens.
Avoid rubbing the eyes, this can make them more itchy and irritated. Cold compresses may help provide some instant relief.
Taking an oral antihistamine, such as Claritin or Zyrtec, can help with eye symptoms.
There are great over-the-counter eyedrops for those that need more direct symptom relief. Brands such as Pataday, Alaway, or Zaditor work quite well and can be taking in conjunction with oral antihistamines.
If your allergy symptoms are severe, it is important to see an eye care professional for evaluation and treatment. They can help to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
If you are a contact lens wearer and have allergies, here are some tips to help manage your symptoms and ensure the health of your eyes:
Use preservative-free artificial tears: These can help to lubricate and soothe dry, itchy eyes.
Avoid wearing your contacts during high allergy times: If you know that your allergies are worse at certain times of the year, consider taking a break from wearing your contacts during those times.
Use a daily disposable lens: These lenses are worn for one day and then thrown away, which can help to reduce the buildup of allergens and irritants on the lenses.
Follow good lens hygiene: Be sure to follow the instructions for cleaning and disinfecting your contact lenses to help prevent the buildup of allergens and bacteria on the lenses.
Consider switching to a peroxide based contact lens solution: these solutions will clean the allergens off your lenses the best. Be sure to read and follow instructions for these solutions carefully.
Use allergy medications as directed: If you are taking allergy medications, be sure to follow the instructions and take them as directed to help manage your allergy symptoms. You should not put any allergy drops in your eyes while wearing your contact lenses. Always wait 10 minutes to insert your contacts after using these drops.
