It’s usually a welcome time of year. The frigid winter temperatures are beginning to give way to warmer days. Buds spring up. Days get longer.
If you struggle with spring allergies, though, all of this might be unwelcome news. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend the coming months with itchy, watery eyes or other unwelcome symptoms.
With an emphasis on complete eye care, Hilla Steinberg, MD, and our team want to help you keep your eyes comfortable this spring and summer. You can visit us at our office on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City for a more personalized care plan.
We want to get you started today, too. Here are a few tips for avoiding eye-related spring allergy symptoms:
An oral antihistamine can help with all of your allergy symptoms, including watery eyes.
The key is taking the medication early and often. You’ll get the best relief for your eyes if you start taking an option like loratadine (Claritin®) or cetirizine (ZYRTEC®) a bit before your spring allergies typically start.
Then, take it as prescribed. That’s usually every 24 hours. The “antihistamine” in the name means that the medication fights the histamines that cause allergy symptoms. But you need a steady dose of those antihistamines to keep watery, itchy eyes at bay.
You can create a physical barrier between your eyes and allergens.
Usually, spring allergies stem from pollen. When you wear a hat and sun/eyeglasses when you head outdoors, you limit how many of those pollen particles get to your eyes.
In a similar vein, be mindful of your pollen exposure. Online, you can find a variety of pollen trackers for New York City. Pick one and keep an eye on it. Avoid being outside when it says pollen levels are high.
If you have to be outdoors during a high pollen count, take action when you get home. Wash your hands and face or, better yet, take a shower. This reduces the pollen you bring inside.
Also, keep your windows closed to prevent pollen from entering.
For most people, following these tips means a significant reduction in spring allergy symptoms. If you’re still dealing with eye discomfort, don’t hesitate to come see Dr. Steinberg.
She might recommend eye drops to relieve itching or a saline rinse each time you get home. She partners with you to help you find relief this spring.
You shouldn’t have to spend the season with irritated eyes. To get the complete eye care you need, call our office or book an appointment online today.
