Topic of the Month
- Over 30 Years of Experience
- Member of the American Optometric Association
- Most Major Insurance Accepted
- Over 30 Years of Experience
- Member of the American Optometric Association
- Most Major Insurance Accepted
MAY IS NATIONAL ALLERGY & ASTHMA AWARENESS MONTH
For allergy sufferers, the arrival of spring is not always welcome, even after a winter like 2022-23! That’s because the warmer weather brings allergy season.
Seasonal allergies are very common: in the US, 81 million people were diagnosed with seasonal allergies in 2021! And many of those diagnosed have eye-associated symptoms or allergic conjunctivitis:
- Red, Itchy Eyes
- Watery Eyes with Stringy, White Discharge
- Swollen Eyelids
Some allergies are present year-round. Others vary by season. Symptoms also vary between people, from mild (awareness) to severe (I want to scratch my eyes out!).
Fortunately, there are treatment options.
For mild allergic conjunctivitis, home therapies can be very effective:
- Rinsing the eyes with sterile saline solution to flush out irritants
- Cold compresses on the eyes to reduce itch and swelling
- Wearing glasses/sunglasses outdoors to shield the eyes from pollen
As is the case with seasonal allergy medications, several allergic conjunctivitis medications that used to be available only with a prescription are now available over the counter:
For those whose symptoms don’t respond to OTC therapies, there are prescription options available as well:
Allergic conjunctivitis can be particularly problematic for contact lens wearers. The contact lens can make all of the allergic conjunctivitis symptoms worse. Some people are even unable to wear their contacts during allergy season! But now there is a new treatment option for contact lens wearers: Acuvue Theravision.
Acuvue Theravision is the first medication-infused contact lens approved by the FDA. Theravision is a daily disposable contact lens that releases antihistamine onto the eye providing 12 hours of relief from the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
So remember: red, itchy, watery eyes are not normal! If home remedies are not providing relief, give Bis-Man Eyecare Associates a call. We can help!
Learn More About
Bis-Man Eye Care Associates
Share On: