Fall eye allergies take on two categories, seasonal and perennial. Seasonal allergies occur mostly in early spring, during summer, and in fall. Allergens in the air cause triggers, resulting in watery and itchy eyes, in addition to other symptoms. The allergens are mostly dust mites, pollen from plants, and spores from mold. Here are some tips to help you have healthy eyes during the fall.

Know What Triggers Your Allergies

Allergens can vary in different areas and regions of the country. Know which ones trigger your allergies and how to deal with them beforehand. It is important to take precautions early before the allergens catch up with your eyes. You can start on your medication early in the late summer before the pollen counts start increasing.

Protective Eye Wear

Wear sunglasses to reduce the contact of pollen with your eyes. If you are gardening, you can add a wrap to the glasses or wear a protective mask.

Check Pollen Counts

Pollen counts fluctuate as the day goes by and vary in different areas. It is thus important to know these pollen counts depending on your location and the time of day. This will help you modify your environment. Mornings, early evening, and hot, windy days have the highest pollen counts. To deal with these times, stay indoors, keep windows closed, and run the air conditioner.

Wash Out Allergens

Limit exposure to dust mites by washing your bedding often in hot water. If you have an old mattress, you may consider switching it out for a new one. You can also use special pillow covers that keep away allergens. Clean your floors with a damp mop instead of sweeping. 

Using a humidifier, keep the humidity in your home under 50 percent to prevent mold. Cleaning up when you come into the house is very important. You must wash your hair, face, and hands. Rinsing your pet helps rid pollen that may be stuck before you transfer them to pillows and then to your eyes. 

Lubricate Eyes

Use cold or warm compresses when you feel your eyes are itchy instead of rubbing them. They also help with pink eye. Saline water, like teardrops, contains salt with antimicrobial properties. It is therefore effective in dealing with infections. Eye drops that are saline in nature help deal with dry eyes from allergies.

Treatment and Medication

Good hygiene is important in ensuring that your eyes are healthy. Do not share eye makeup and brushes during fall to avoid getting conjunctivitis. Be careful as you use over-the-counter medication to treat your allergies, as some may make your symptoms worse. Home remedies like teabags work effectively when dealing with inflammation. Make sure to see a doctor if symptoms persist for long. You can use prescription antihistamines to keep the allergies under control. 

For more tips on keeping healthy eyes, visit Inclima Eye Care at our office in West Haven, Connecticut. You can call (203) 694-0418 today to book an appointment.