How to Relieve Itchy Eyes Due to Hay Fever
If you have ever wondered how to relieve itchy eyes due to hay fever. you’re not alone! Spring is a season loved by some and dreaded by many. As the temperature warms up, flowers start to blossom and hay fever party season gets into full swing!
Did you know that 1 in every 7 Australians suffer with hay fever? You may be one of them.
Some of the symptoms hay fever sufferers complain of include a constant runny or itchy nose, sneezing and puffy/red eyes. The main cause of this is mainly pollen, a microscopic fine powder released by flowers. At George Street Eye Centre we want to educate you to understand why this is occuring and how to enjoy spring without this nusiance.
Why Does Hay Fever Affect the Eyes?
Hay fever can affect the eyes in many ways. It can cause the eyes to become red, make your eyelids swell and cause the eyes to become watery..
Swelling of the eyes is a result of an inflammatory response created by the body releasing histamines into your body. As a consequence, you end up with itchy, red, puffy and watery eyes. This is why antihistamines are great for relieving these symptoms, by working against the histamines created by your body.
How Can I Avoid Hay Fever This Spring?
Avoiding hay fever is like saying you should sit in a vacuum capsule till the seasons end, virtually impossible.
Yet you can try to avoid allergens as much as you can by minimising your time outdoors, avoiding peak of pollen release which is usually early mornings or late afternoon, minimising your alcohol intake, reducing stress and ensuring you get a good night’s sleep.
Diet can also play a role with regards to your eyes and may improve your hay fever symptoms as well. Suggestions include increasing your consumption of Omega 3 oils, eating leafy green vegetables, and eating bright coloured fruits/ vegetables.
What’s the Best Way to Treat Eyes Affected by Hay Fever?
There are a few steps you can take to help manage and alleviate your hay fever symptoms and rid yourself of those itchy eyes.
These include the use of anti-histamine eye drops, artificial tears, anti-inflammatory eye drops or oral anti histamines.
Using cold compresses can also help to soothe red and inflamed eyes. Cucumbers can also be used to help soothe the eyes as well!
Also, you should avoid rubbing your eyes! Easier said than done. Although hay fever may give you the urge to do so. Rubbing your eyes can lead to even more inflammation to your eyelids and consequently making your eyes even more uncomfortable.
Should I see a Doctor About My Itchy Eyes?
If your symptoms persist, see your doctor. A referral to an Ophthalmologist can assist you with your management of this where future eye laser surgery procedures may be taken if need be.
How to Enjoy Spring!
There are many reasons to look forward to spring, and itchy eyes shouldn’t keep you down. Follow the tips, stock up on antihistamines and eye drops and if all else fails, see your doctor.
If your one of the 6 out of 7 who don’t suffer from hay fever, ENJOY THE POLLEN!