Topic of the Month

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 U.S., 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:

• Rinse 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:

• Patanol
• Alaway
• Zaditor
• Lastacaft

For those whose symptoms don’t respond to OTC therapies, there are prescription options available as well:

• Bepreve
• Alrex

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!