RALEIGH, N.C., April 24, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Spring, summer and autumn all have the potential for seasonal eye allergies. Family Eye Care of Raleigh, North Carolina is alerting area residents about the top symptoms and solutions. Seasonal eye allergies can be extremely uncomfortable and lead to eye health issues.
As many as 50 million people in the U.S. have seasonal allergies, according to The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Up to 30 percent of adults and 40 percent of children face seasonal allergies each year.
Seasonal allergies are characterized by red, watery, itchy eyes as well as a runny nose and sneezing. Pollen and other irritants in the air are the main cause of seasonal allergies. The result is discomfort due to the body’s immune response.
Swelling, itching and watering of the eyes can be extremely uncomfortable. In some cases, these allergies and their symptoms can lead to eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye).
Relief from seasonal allergies begins with striving to avoid the conditions that exacerbate the allergic response. Using an air filter at home and avoiding wooded or grassy areas during high pollen count days can help. Wearing wrap-around sunglasses outdoors can block eye exposure to pollen, dust and other airborne allergens. Driving with the windows closed can also help to reduce exposure.
The use of moisturizing eye drops is another way to soothe irritated eyes during allergy season. There are a number of prescription and non-prescription varieties available to relieve itching, redness and watering. A prescription strength brand of eye drops may be required for those with more severe allergies.
Other tips for avoiding the symptoms and discomfort of seasonal allergies include refraining from touching or rubbing the eyes even if they itch. Rubbing releases more histamine in the system, causing symptoms and discomfort to become much worse. There is also an increased risk of additional eye damage and infection.
Gently washing the eyes with mild soap and warm water at the end of the day can assist with cleansing away any accumulated pollen and allowing better sleep throughout the night.
For severe cases of seasonal allergies, taking an antihistamine medication can bring relief. A decongestant or anti-inflammatory can help with reducing nasal passage swelling.
Dr. Jeffrey Handschumacher adds, “Contact lens wearers might consider wearing glasses instead of their contact lenses during allergy season. Wearing daily disposables is another option; throwing away lenses after each use can help with minimizing eye exposure to the buildup of debris and pollen on lens surfaces.”
Family Eye Care Center is located in Suite 101 at 7500 Ramble Way in Raleigh, North Carolina. Those who would like to learn more about their services or book an appointment may do so by calling (919) 981-4444. More information is also available on their website at http://www.familyeyecarecenternc.com/.