Want relief from eye allergies? Here's what you need to know

Lifestyle Wednesday 01/April/2020 16:25 PM
By: Times News Service
Want relief from eye allergies? Here's what you need to know

This allergy season you may be questioning whether what you are experiencing is an allergy or a virus, including COVID-19. The first step is to consult your doctor.
If you are experiencing itchy allergy eyes, chances are they are reacting to pollen produced by grasses, weeds and trees.
The good news is there are things you can do, and things you should avoid, to reduce your itchy eyes due to allergies - according to US based allergy expert, Dr. Tania Elliott.
DO wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from airborne pollen.
DO keep your contact lenses clean during allergy season. Cleaning contacts frequently or wearing daily contact lenses that you dispose of each day can allow you to wear contacts throughout the season.
DO use an effective, doctor's approved over-the-counter eye drop.
DO put allergy eye drops in BEFORE applying makeup. Using eye allergy drops beforehand provides itchy allergy eye relief at the beginning of your beauty routine. Avoid false eyelashes or glue, as well as sticky beauty products like hairspray and lotions, which may be more susceptible to trapping pollen.
DO keep windows shut during peak pollen hours, which are mid-morning and early evening. Keeping your car windows closed while driving can also help.
DON'T hang laundry outside, especially bed linens, as they may collect pollen. Make sure to frequently wash bedding or linens in hot water, especially those that come in contact with your face and eyes - such as pillowcases and washcloths. Invest in good anti-allergy pillow covers and a mattress cover, and take a shower to wash the pollen out of your hair before bed.
DON'T rub your eyes, no matter how itchy they feel. You may end up scratching your cornea.Instead, hold a clean cold washcloth on your eyes for several minutes to help soothe irritation.
If you experience persistent eye allergy symptoms, talk to your doctor about taking an allergy test to learn about the allergens that you react to the most. Knowing these allergens can help you avoid them in your daily life - so you can make the most of your day.