Allergies and Spring

Spring is almost here and with that means seasonal allergies are too.  Allergies affect one out of every five Americans according to WebMD and I am one of those affected.  Eye allergies affect many Americans with symptoms like itchy, dry, watery, and red eyes.  Other allergy symptoms are a runny nose, sneezing or coughing, headache, and congestion. 

Eye doctors like Dr. Tavel and his board certified associates suggest treating symptoms by avoiding the cause (cleaning to eliminate pet dander, dust, etc), taking medication to alleviate symptoms, and wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect eyes.  Sunglasses will help protect the eyes from coming in contact with allergens like dander and dust as well as prevent UV-ray damage.

Allaboutvision.com provides these questions to quiz yourself with to see if you are affected by eye allergies:

• Do allergies run in your family?
• Do your eyes often itch, particularly during spring pollen season?
• Have you ever been diagnosed with “pink eye” (conjunctivitis)?
• Are you allergic to certain animals such as cats?
• Do you often need antihistamines and/or decongestants to control sneezing, coughing and congestion?
• When pollen is in the air, are your eyes less red and itchy when you stay indoors under an air conditioner?
• Do your eyes begin tearing when you wear certain cosmetics or lotions, or when you’re around certain strong perfumes?

If you answered yes to many of these questions visit your eye care doctor today like Dr. Tavel to find the best solution for care.