With the arrival of spring, many of us welcome the warmer weather, but not the allergies that come with it. During this season, our eyes can become particularly vulnerable to irritants like pollen, dust, and pet dander, leading to discomfort and potential vision problems. As a leading eye care specialist in Calgary, we are committed to helping you maintain clear and comfortable vision, even through allergy season. Here are several effective ways to protect your eyes and keep them healthy.
Keep Your Environment Allergen-Free
Maintaining a clean living environment is crucial in minimizing exposure to allergens. Here are some tips to help keep your home and workspaces allergen-free:
- Use air purifiers: These can significantly reduce the amount of pollen, dust, and other airborne allergens in your indoor environment.
- Keep windows closed: During high pollen days, keep your windows shut to prevent pollens from entering your home.
- Regular cleaning: Frequent dusting and vacuuming with a HEPA filter can help remove allergens from your surroundings.
Protect Your Eyes Outdoors
When stepping outside, especially on days with high pollen counts, take proactive steps to shield your eyes:
- Wear sunglasses: A good pair of sunglasses can block allergens from reaching your eyes. Ensure they fit well to minimize the amount of air that reaches your eyes from around the edges.
- Avoid touching/rubbing your eyes: This can exacerbate irritation and spread allergens further.
Consider Eye Drops and Proper Eyecare
Appropriate eye drops can provide relief from itchy, watery eyes associated with allergies. However, it’s important to use the correct type of eye drops:
- Artificial tears: These can help flush out allergens from your eyes.
- Decongestant eye drops: Used occasionally, these can relieve redness, although they’re not recommended for long-term use.
For contact lens wearers, consider switching to daily disposables during allergy season to prevent allergens from building up on your lenses.
Manage Allergies with Proper Medication
Over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications can be very effective in controlling systemic reactions and have a positive effect on eye symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional to choose the most suitable medication.
Regular Eye Exams
Regular check-ups with your eye care specialist in Calgary can help detect any allergy-related issues before they become serious. Your eye doctor can also recommend personalized tips and treatments to combat eye allergies.
Need More Help? Contact Us!
If you’re struggling with eye allergies or any other vision issues this season, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call us today at (403) 684-0146 to schedule an appointment. Protecting your vision is our top priority!