Seasonal Eye Allergies Boom in 2012

The verdict is in - allergy season 2012 is set to make record high pollen levels. Seasonal allergies are expected between early spring through summer and into autumn, yet doctors reported patients experiencing allergy sniffling and sinuses as early as February 2012. The allergies are caused by exposure to allergens in the air, commonly pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds, as well as spores from molds. A new study from the National Academy of Sciences found that the length of ragweed season in numerous regions of the country increased by as much as 27 days over the last ten years.

As it continues to get warmer, the allergies will persist. What does this mean for your eyes? Well, that may mean itchy, watery, red, eyes for everyone; especially those with strong sensitivity to pollen. Allergic conjunctivitis affects approximately 40% of people in the United States, which causes problems for 1 in 5 people in the US. Many seasonal allergy sufferers report eye allergy symptoms as the most troublesome.

In the midst of the worst allergy season ever, it is important to know what works best for you. There are tons of home-remedies and over-the-counter products based around allergies. For itchy eyes, it is best to lubricate the eyes with artificial tears to dilute accumulated allergens and prevent the allergens from sticking to the conjunctiva. Unfortunately, these drops have no impact on swelling or redness.

For the best aid for your eyes, contact your optometrist. There are a variety of decongestant eye drops, antihistamine drops, and steroid drops for every eye need but many times patients do not know exactly what the problem is, other than their eyes are uncomfortable.

For any eye allergy, there are a few safe tips to remember:

- Dry eyes may enhance allergy symptoms, therefore address dry eye first.
- Try to avoid the causes by staying indoors in the morning when pollen levels are the highest.
- Cold compresses can soothe swollen eyes due to sudden allergic reactions.
- Keep eye drops refrigerated for soothing sensation during application
- Wash your hands often during allergy season and try not to rub your eyes.

Are you suffering with seasonal eye allergies? For more information on how to combat eye allergies make an appointment to see an experienced optometrist today. No one wants to suffer through the season and a doctor would be the best to figure out a plan of allergy attack just for you.