The eyes are one of the most important organs of the body. We use them to gather information about the world and help us navigate it. We take in the beauty of nature and share those experiences with our loved ones. But while they are so important, they are also very vulnerable. 
 

Eye conditions come in various forms and can affect anyone in the world. Doctors offer different solutions for the various conditions that affect people. One condition that is becoming more and more common is seasonal allergies. As the name suggests, the condition develops only in specific seasons. 

So, what are seasonal eye allergies, and what causes them?

What Are Seasonal Eye Allergies?

Seasonal eye allergies are allergic reactions in your eyes due to specific allergens common in a particular season. They commonly affect people during spring and winter. During spring, the leading causes are allergens like pollen and pet dander, while in winter, it is commonly caused by environmental changes.

The allergy is the body’s reaction to an allergen. Usually, the allergen, like pollen, gets into the eye, and the body perceives it as a danger. As a countermeasure, the body produces histamines to fight the foreign body. The histamines then cause the eye to produce an allergic reaction.

What Allergens Cause Seasonal Eye Allergies?

The most common causes of seasonal eye allergies are:

• Pollen.
• Pet dander.
• Dust mites.
• Mold.
• Smoke.
• Fragrances and perfumes.
• Dust.

How to Prevent Seasonal Eye Allergies

As mentioned above, many people only suffer from these allergies during certain seasons. However, some people are so sensitive that they have them throughout the year. Here are some strategies you can employ to prevent allergies.

Close Your Doors and Windows

During spring, you can reduce the pollen entering your home by keeping your house closed. As expected, your house becomes too hot to live in, so you can turn on the aircon while you are in the house. 

Wear Sunglasses or Eye Protection 

When going out in the spring, ensure you have something to cover your eyes. The main aim is to keep the pollen or dust that may trigger a reaction from ever reaching your eyes. The best and most appropriate eye protection is wraparound sunglasses because they also provide UV protection. 

Clean Up Regularly

Another strategy to reduce the chances of an allergic reaction is cleaning the house regularly. Cleaning will reduce the amount of dust that collects in the house. You can use mite-proof bedding to reduce the chances of mites. When you wash these, ensure you use hot water. Clean your surfaces with wet rags and mops instead of dusting them with a dry instrument. It will reduce the chances of dust getting into your eyes.

Mold Control

Take measures to control mold growth in your home. One way is using a dehumidifier. If you notice any mold growing in your house, clean it with a detergent and bleach solution. It will disinfect the surface and kill any mold spores that may remain.

Clean Your Hands

Clean hands are a good thing for overall health. They are also crucial in preventing seasonal eye allergies. Your hands pick up all types of contaminants, and you do not want to have them reaching your eyes. Keeping your hands clean often will mitigate this risk. 

For more about optometrist tips for preventing seasonal eye allergies, visit Eyes on Preston Park at our office in Plano, Texas. Call (972) 519-0006 to book an appointment today.