For some of us, hayfever is the bane of our lives once the sun comes out. We find our eyes become itchy, irritated, watery, red and it can seem to worsen despite our best efforts. In this article, I will explain why this happens, discuss ways to manage these symptoms and provide some tips for contact lens wearers.

What is hayfever?

Hayfever is an allergic reaction in response to the pollen which is found on plants. When this pollen comes into contact with our eyes, nose, mouth or throat it triggers an allergic reaction that leads to the production of histamine which causes the symptoms of hayfever.

When it comes to your eyes, hayfever can result in itching, irritation, watery eyes and red eyes. Rubbing the eyes tends to be the go-to response when hayfever hits. Unfortunately, this just worsens the irritation and makes the eyes more red. So, what is the best way to manage these symptoms?

Managing hayfever symptoms

We’ve all heard that prevention is better than cure. A more primitive way to prevent hayfever eye symptoms is to stay inside with the windows closed. For those of us who prefer to actually leave the house, an antihistamine tablet can be taken before we venture out.

Eye drops are often recommended to help with dry eyes. When it comes to hayfever, there are specific drops that can be used to help alleviate feelings of itchiness and irritation. One such drop is known as Sodium Cromoglicate and can be purchased from a pharmacy (note: be sure to adhere to the written instructions that come with the drops and listen to the advice of your pharmacist).

Another way to prevent pollen reaching the eye is to cover them as much as possible. This involves wearing sunglasses or optical frames. Wrap around frames are known to provide better protection.

For the contact lens wearers out there, it is recommended you cease contact lens wear and switch to glasses when the pollen count is particularly high. Not only can pollen build up in reusable lenses, rubbing your eyes while wearing contact lenses can cause the contact lens to be displaced or rip while in the eye (and nobody wants that). In a situation where contact lenses are the only option, then daily contact lenses should be worn and disposed of on the same day. You should also refrain from rubbing your eyes while wearing lenses.

A combination of the above suggestions should lead to a reduction of hayfever eye symptoms and a more enjoyable, itch-free, summer!