Winter may be in full swing, but spring is right around the corner. While there is a lot to love about the warmer weather, those with allergies have to contend with itchy, red, watery eyes. Fortunately, if you experience allergies every spring, your eye doctor can help. In the meantime, here are just a few ways to get relief until your appointment. 

Avoid the Triggers

The most effective way to relieve the symptoms of eye allergies is by avoiding allergens. This includes staying indoors when the pollen count is high, using high-quality filters in your home’s HVAC system, and wearing wraparound sunglasses when you go outside. Ditching contact lenses and opting for glasses instead will also help because contacts can attract allergens. If your lifestyle does not allow for wearing glasses regularly, ask your eye doctor about switching to once-daily disposable contacts. Discarding lenses after every use will keep you from wearing contacts that have accumulated airborne allergens. 

Take Medication as Instructed 

Both over-the-counter eyedrops and oral medication may effectively relieve mild to moderate allergy symptoms. An optometrist can recommend the best drops, antihistamines, and decongestants for your particular needs. For those with severe symptoms, though, more powerful prescription drops or medication may be necessary. Regardless of whether you end up using over-the-counter or prescription products, though, it’s essential to follow all directions for doing so. This includes both your provider’s guidelines and the instructions on the packaging. 

If you need relief from allergies this spring, turn to an eye doctor at Wise Vision Care in Elizabethtown, KY. For more than two decades, this practice has provided comprehensive eye care for patients at every stage of life. In addition to treating common eye diseases, they assist with vision correction by fitting patients for contact lenses and glasses. To request an appointment with an eye doctor on their team, fill out the form on their website or call (270) 769-3708.