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The Joys and Pains of Springtime: Allergy Season Has Hit California
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Sacramento, CA (April 2009) - According to the California Optometric Association (COA), 20 percent of adults and children suffer from allergies, the sixth leading cause of chronic disease.
Those who endure red, itchy, watery eyes usually try over-thecounter drops that promise immediate relief. But many find short-lived or little-to-no relief and continue to rub their eyes throughout the day, adding to the redness rather than relieving the itch. COA members report seeing an increase in patient complaints during April and May, and offer tips on relief, as well as a warning that symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.
"Patients know their eyes best, but increased amounts of swelling, redness and pain should lead to a visit to the optometrist," says COA President Dr. Hilary Hawthorne.
Self-diagnosis and treatment can potentially make the condition worse because allergies and bacterial or viral infections can exhibit the same symptoms.
Below are optometrist recommended ways to temporarily relieve discomfort until you see your eye doctor:
When itching begins, immediately place a cold compress over your eyes for a few minutes. If you don't have a compress, wrap some ice cubes in a wash cloth. This is also a great option for children as it keeps them from rubbing their eyes and minimizes chemicals being put into eyes from other treatments.
Put a bottle of sterile saline solution in the fridge to chill and the use it to rinse out itchy eyes. This is particularly beneficial if your eyes have been exposed to dust and pollen.
Preservative-free over the counter eye drops are best as those with strong preservatives tend to sting the eye. Avoid drops that promise to "get the red out" as they don't help allergy symptoms or offer treatment. Instead, they constrict blood vessels which can have significant side effects. Prescription eye drops are best as they are more effective, and some are gentle enough that they are approved for use down to the age of two years old.
When in doubt, see your optometrist because vision is too important to jeopardize.
The California Optometric Association, founded in 1899, is California's oldest recognized community for optometrists. It represents over 2700 optometrists in the state. COA is dedicated to assuring the highest quality of health care for the public through the advancement of optometry. For more information, log onto www.coavision.org. To find an optometrist in your area, go to www.eyehelp.org.
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