5 Tips for Spring Allergy Relief

Wednesday, March 20th marked the first day of Spring! Typically, you may expect warmer weather, longer days, and blooming trees. For millions of people who have seasonal allergies, spring also means the start of discomfort and unpleasant symptoms.
 

Pollen ranks number one as the most common allergen to trigger seasonal allergies. When someone allergic to pollen inhales pollen particles, the result is an allergic reaction, which occurs when the body mistakenly identifies the pollen as a dangerous invader. This causes the body to release antibodies to fight the invader in order to protect itself. The body also produces histamine, a chemical that enters the bloodstream and triggers the dreaded symptoms of allergies.
 

Seasonal Allergies - Signs and Symptoms
 

Common symptoms include:
 

• Itchiness
• Redness and swelling
• Excessive tear production
• Sneezing, coughing, runny nose
• Light sensitivity
• Blurred vision
• Headache
• Burning or soreness
• Eye discharge

5 Tips to Deal with Seasonal Eye Allergies

To reduce your allergy symptoms, limit your time outdoors on windy days or when pollen counts are too high. If you choose to go outside, use eyewear to minimize contact between outside allergens and your eyes. A good rule of thumb is to wash your clothes and shower to rinse off any airborne particles when you return home. Removing the exposure will ease symptoms, which last as long as the exposure lasts. Rely on your air conditioner to cool your home instead of using window fans, which can introduce outdoor allergens into the indoors.
 

Using a high-quality filter inside your home, such as a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, is an investment worth making. These filters trap most airborne allergens such as harmful microscopic particles, pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and other substances that circulate in the air of your home. Not only will you reduce the air pollution, you will also reduce allergy symptoms and breathe better.
 

Though prevention is considered to be the best treatment, coming into contact with an allergen is inevitable. The upside is that several nonprescription options are available to alleviate your seasonal allergy symptoms, including artificial tears, antihistamines, and decongestants. Despite the irritation that you may experience, it is wise to not rub your eyes because it can worsen your symptoms. Be sure to treat your eye allergies as soon as possible!
 

During allergy season, consider switching from traditional contact lenses to daily disposable contact lenses. Airborne allergens can accumulate on the surface of contact lenses, leading to increased discomfort and irritation. Daily disposables are a convenient and hygienic option, as you start each day with a fresh pair, reducing the likelihood of allergen buildup. This simple switch can significantly improve your comfort and reduce allergy symptoms during the spring months.
 

“Look what the cat dragged in” is a familiar idiom that goes hand in hand with seasonal allergies. When your pet roams outside, they collect a variety of irritants such as pollen, dirt, and dust. They then drag them into your house and bring forth the onset of flare-ups and physical effects, exacerbating your allergy. Keep your symptoms at bay by washing your hands and clothes frequently. Ensuring that your pet is groomed and clean will reduce both your spring allergies and theirs too!

If you follow the tips above and still suffer from seasonal allergies, talk to one of our eye experts about which treatment option is best for you. At Atlanta Eye Group, your vision is our focus.
 

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Dr. Anisha Haji received her Doctorate of Optometry from Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University and has particular interests in ocular disease management and specialty contact lens fittings. She owns and operates Atlanta Eye Group, which partners with LensCrafters at six locations across the city. Atlanta Eye Group was voted Best in Georgia in 2021, 2022 and 2023 and was inducted into the Kennesaw Business Hall of Fame in 2023. Her clinic in Kennesaw has won Best Optometry Office for the past six years straight.

Dr. Haji is a strong advocate for the profession of Optometry in Georgia. She was the President of the Greater Atlanta Optometric Association in 2022 and 2023, currently serves as a Trustee and Corporate Optometry Chair of the Georgia Optometric Association, and is an active member of the American Optometric Association. Outside of work, Dr. Haji loves traveling, fine dining, and spending time with her husband and two daughters.