Stuffy noses. Sneezing. Itchy eyes. For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, these are the signs of spring they have become accustomed to during this time. However, allergies are not necessarily a one-season pony as indoor allergens like mold, pet dander, or dust mites trigger the same symptoms any time of year.

The obvious solution, although nearly impossible, is to avoid the allergens. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the symptoms, such as staying inside on high-pollen-count days, using a dehumidifier to reduce mold growth indoors, and vacuuming your home using a HEPA filter. 

People with eye allergies may find it difficult to wear contact lenses, especially if the eyes are already irritated. If not cleaned properly, contacts can also trap allergens. Daily disposables are a great alternative as well as reducing the wear time by wearing glasses instead.

Artificial tears may be helpful to wash allergens out of your eyes. Both prescription and non-prescription eye drops are available for treating allergies. Oral medications, that reduce your body's allergic reaction, can help in the short-term.

This time of year can also exacerbate dry eye, a condition that makes the eyes red, itchy, tired, and irritated, as if there's something in your eyes. You may also experience light sensitivity and blurred vision. Dry eye is sometimes confused with allergies since they share some of the same symptoms.

Eye drops are commonly used to combat age-related dryness. Additionally, changes to your environment, contact lens usage, and treatment of the eyelid glands may be prescribed by your optometrist to relieve the symptoms.

Routine eye exams are critical to diagnosing either of these conditions, along with providing insights into other health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease and more. Be sure to discuss all of your medical symptoms with your eye doctor at each visit. Schedule your appointment today! 

Originally published on May 4, 2020  by Kristine Heslin on LinkedIn