For most people the summer months are a time to look forward to, with longer days filled with sunshine and warmer weather! For others though, a hay fever allergy can significantly disrupt their enjoyment of the summer – and it may also prevent them from wearing their contact lenses.
In this article, we explore why hay fever and contact lenses don’t mix, and the ways you can reduce your hay fever symptoms.
How Hay Fever Can Affect The Eyes
Pollen gets into the eyes when pollen sources such as grass are regularly being mowed and disturbed. Plants, flowers, and trees that are in bloom will also release considerable amounts of pollen.
For hay fever sufferers, pollen irritates and inflames the delicate tissues around the eyes, causing itching, scratching, and weeping. Eventually, the dryness produced by the inflammation often make the eye area sore and red.
Tiny amounts of pollen can become trapped underneath contact lenses, meaning that the allergen is in constant contact with the eyeball, potentially making symptoms much worse.
Ways To Reduce Symptoms
In order to alleviate the discomfort hay fever produces, there are 3 main methods to reduce the allergy severity :
- Avoidance – Staying inside and avoiding areas with greenery or grass may help to reduce the amount of pollen that you encounter. Shutting windows when indoors will also lower the pollen count, but be aware that clothes also transport it. Ensure you shower and change clothes once you get home.
- Eyewear – Wearing glasses rather than contact lenses will stop pollen from getting trapped under the lens and may offer a degree of eye protection. ‘Wraparound’ sunglasses can also shield the eyes and could be a good option if you still want to wear contact lenses. Prevent pollen build up by changing your lenses every day.
- Medication – Anti-histamines can greatly reduce the effects of hay fever for some people but have little effect for others. In addition, lubricating or anti-inflammatory eye drops may help to alleviate the dryness and irritation a hay fever allergy causes. Consult your optician who will decide on a suitable treatment plan.
A Permanent Vision Solution
Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do to cure hay fever allergies!
However, we can make contact lenses and glasses a thing of the past with Laser Eye Surgery.
Opting for laser correction means that you will no longer have to practice a meticulous daily hygiene ritual, or be at risk of pollen becoming trapped under your contact lenses. It is also an image-friendly alternative for those people who dislike wearing glasses.
With over 75 years combined medical experience, our world-class surgeons provide industry leading results (100% of patients obtain driving standard vision), and we also offer a 1 year Aftercare GUARANTEE.
Why not book a Free Consultation today by calling our friendly team on 0808 302 6094, or see what our other patients say about us
