Eye Health: 7 Ways to Fight Eye Allergies

Allergy season has arrived. Many people with eye allergies are beginning to scramble for relief from the familiar itchy, irritating symptoms. We’re here to offer you 7 ways to fight those seasonal eye allergies, so you can focus on enjoying the activities you love this Spring.

  1. Eye Allergens are Highest Mid-Morning and Early Evening

    Did you know that allergens are most common in mid-morning and early evening? If you are outside during those times, the risk of reaction is much higher. If you can, use added allergy protection during the mid-morning and early evening hours. During the mid-morning and early evening, you may want to utilize air conditioning, rather than open windows, as well. 
  2. Keep Your Bedding Clean

    Even though many allergens are outside, there are still a few in the home. Make sure that your sheets and other bedding are all washed on a regular basis. This will lower your exposure to dust mites and other indoor allergens. Hot water is a must for dispelling allergens. So make sure to wash your bedding in at least 130-degree water.
  3. Choose Mopping Over Sweeping

    Sweeping your floor seems innocent enough. However, it can cause your allergies to flare up. When you sweep, allergens are kicked up into the air, increasing your chances of exposure. A damp mop or floor pad can actually trap allergens safely without dispersing them into the air. This method is a great way to remove allergens from your home, helping keep it as clean and allergy free as possible!
  4. Go for Hard Floors

    Carpets and rugs can attract allergens and make for difficult cleaning. But hard floors like wood, tile, and even linoleum are much easier to clean. This can help you to keep a handle on the allergens in your home and keep your eyes happy and healthy. As mentioned above, when you have hard floors, it is easier to remove allergens with a damp pad or mop. That way they never have a chance to cause a problem.
  5. Keep Away the Mold

    One of the  . Keeping mold at bay is essential for healthy eyes. If you are in a climate conducive to mold, or even if you just want to be pro-active, installing a dehumidifier and controlling the temperature in your home will prevent the growth and development of mold. Did you know that the kitchen and bathroom are both hotspots for mold growth? Be sure to use bleach when you clean these areas to avoid any future problems with mold.
  6. Consider Saline Rinses

    There are many things you can do to treat your symptoms if allergies have already struck. A good saline rinse can help soothe your eye pain and flush out allergens. This is a simple and safe solution for eye allergy care, and it will help ensure that your eyes are back in top form today! When rinsing, be sure to tilt your head and rinse from the inner corner of your eye (nose) to the outer. That way you flush all the allergens out without splashing them into your other eye!
  7. Use Artificial Tears Eye Drops

    Artificial tears eye drops can also help temporarily relieve the effects of your allergies by washing allergens from your eyes. This can help keep your eyes smiling and happy.

With these eye allergy tips in mind, you are well prepared for the months to come. Make sure to follow up with each of these steps to keep your allergies in check.

At VSP, we want to help you take care of your eye and vision health needs. Our network eye doctors are happy to help you at every stage from allergies to eyeglasses. Learn more about the benefits VSP vision insurance plans provide.

 

Information received through VSP Vision Care's social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis or treatment.  Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

 

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