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Tips for allergic eyes

Many of us associate spring with a beautiful season when it warms up, everything turns green, and flowers bloom. This year, we experienced pleasant weather a bit earlier than in previous years. However, for many, spring also means a time when allergies reappear, bringing discomfort to their eyes, which itch, burn, and water. Eye allergies are not only unpleasant but can also be dangerous for our vision. How can we overcome allergies and relieve our eyes?

'Allergy is actually an exaggerated reaction of our immune system to substances we commonly encounter in our environment, such as pollen, dust, mold, or animals. A healthy organism ignores these substances, but an allergic organism is sensitive to these allergens and essentially fights against them as if they were a dangerous infection. Eye allergies occur when an allergen gets into the eyes and the immune system starts to react. This leads to redness, burning, and tearing of the eyes,' explains Dr. Radan Zugar, head physician of Eye Centre Prague.

An exaggerated reaction of the eye to an allergen causes allergic conjunctivitis, which manifests as redness of the eyes, itching, and burning. The eye tears excessively, and the eyelids may swell significantly. Symptoms of eye allergy are usually accompanied by symptoms of nasal allergy, such as sneezing, a blocked nose, or persistent runny nose.

Eye allergies most commonly occur during the spring due to the pollen season, which lasts until the end of summer. During this time, a large amount of pollen from blooming plants, trees, and various types of grasses is released into the air. However, eye allergies can occur year-round and may be influenced by allergens such as dust mites or pet dander.

What we can do for allergic eyes

The most effective way to prevent allergies and protect the eyes is to avoid allergens. During periods of increased pollen levels, it is advisable to monitor pollen reports and limit outdoor activities when pollen concentrations are high. If you cannot stay indoors during that time, wear large sunglasses that cover as much of the area around the eyes as possible, helping to reduce the entry of allergens into the eyes.

"If a patient is already suffering from eye allergies, it is definitely not advisable to rub the eyes. This could worsen the condition of the eye," advises Dr. Zugar, adding: "Upon returning indoors, it is always beneficial to rinse the eyes with clean cold water, and throughout the day, use artificial tears to soothe sensitive eyes, wash out allergens, and hydrate and stabilize the tear film. For already irritated eyes, antihistamine eye drops, which are available over the counter at pharmacies, can be used to reduce redness and swelling. Cold compresses can also be applied to swollen eyes to alleviate these symptoms."

Allergies should not be underestimated. If basic recommendations do not help or if pain, severe redness, or purulent discharge from the eye occurs, it is always advisable to visit an eye doctor. Long-term or severe inflammation can lead to complications and more serious vision problems.