Welcome to springtime, when flowers bloom, bees pollinate, and seasonal allergies take hold. Springtime allergens can change your whole day. Not to worry, if you suffer from allergies, you’re aren’t alone.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology estimates that 50 million people in the U.S. have seasonal allergies, and its prevalence is increasing. It affects up to 30% of adults and up to 40% of children with a yearly cost of $18 billion.[1]
Eye allergies, or red, itchy, watery eyes that are bothered by irritants, are very common during spring. They also vary depending on the type of pollen in the air. [1]
The most common airborne springtime allergens that cause eye allergies, besides pollen, are mold, dust and pet dander. Eye allergies also can be caused by reactions to certain cosmetics and debris from the eyelid or contact lenses. In some cases, eye allergies have even played a role in pink eye and other eye infections. [3]
The best approach to controlling your eye allergy symptoms is to do everything you can to limit your exposure to common allergens. Here are some ways to avoid or reduce allergens for a better springtime experience.
AVOID ALLERGENS.
Clean floors with a damp mop, don’t sweep as it stirs up allergens. Also, washing bedding frequently in hot water helps to kill dust mites, which is what most people are commonly allergic to, not the dust.
To stop mold from growing inside your home, keep the humidity under 50%. Using a dehumidifier, especially in a damp basement, may help to reduce mold.[2]
When going outdoors during allergy season, wear wraparound sunglasses to help shield your eyes from pollen, ragweed, and other allergens in the air. Also, driving with your windows up helps limit allergen exposure.[3]
Using ComfortClear lid wipes and Zenoptiq as part of your daily eyelid hygiene routine also helps to remove debris and allergens from the sensitive eye area.
REDUCE ALLERGENS.
Don’t rub your eyes, even if they itch. It’s hard not to touch your eyes, but it will only make the situation worse. Rubbing causes mast cells to release more compounds called histamines in the tissues around the eyes which results in further itching, redness, and swelling.[3] Instead of rubbing, try a cooling compress (such as ComfortClear) to reduce swelling around the eyes and to reduce ocular itching.
Also, because the surface of contact lenses can attract and accumulate airborne allergens, consider wearing only eyeglasses during allergy season. This reduces the chances of placing allergens directly onto the eye. Studies have shown that the culprit behind eye allergies associated with contact lens wear is not an allergic reaction to the contact lens itself, but to substances that accumulate on the surface of the lenses. [3]
Use Zenoptiq an all-natural, daily eyelid and eyelash cleanser to help keep eyelids free of debris and allergens that might come into contact with contact lenses.
Skip the eye makeup. It may clog the tiny hair follicles and oil glands on your eyelids causing inflammation or styes.
Cold compresses may be used to reduce swelling around the eyes and reduce ocular itching. Apply a cool compress to your eyes to help reduce these symptoms and to help soothe and comfort your eyelids.
ComfortClear can be used as both a lid wipe to remove debris, including allergens and makeup, and as a cooling compress to help reduce allergy symptoms.[3]
Springtime allergens won’t win this round if you create a good eye hygiene regimen. This will help to reduce eye allergies and the symptoms associated with allergens. This may be an important eye care benefit to your life. Take care of your eyes now for a chance at a better future.
Buy Comfort Clear Eyelid Wipes and keep your eyes free of debris.
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