Allergy sufferers should be ready for a bad fall allergy season this year. Fall allergies are typically from high pollen counts. High pollen counts happen when there are warm temperatures and rainfall in the summer. High pollen counts coupled with dry weather afterwards set the stage for a tough allergy season ahead.

Eye allergies, also known as ocular allergies, occur when an allergen irritates the conjunctiva of a patient. The conjunctiva is a delicate membrane that covers the eye and the inside of the eyelid. Ocular allergies can cause eyes to hurt, water, become itchy, red, or swollen. While eye allergies can be unpleasant, it doesn’t pose a risk to a patient’s eyesight except for temporary blurriness. Some possible allergens that can cause eye allergies are: pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander. Pollen and mold spores are seasonal allergens while the other allergens can cause eye allergies year round.

Here are some tips that patients can use in order to survive fall allergy season:

• If you have eye allergy symptoms, see an eye doctor
• Wear a hat and sunglasses when you head outside in order to reduce the amount of allergens that can blow into your eyes.
• Flush allergens out with eye drops recommended by your eye doctor
• Vacuum and use a HEPA filter. That can prevent the buildup of allergens around the house.
• Avoid going outdoors during high pollen count days.
• Keep windows closed at night if possible in order to avoid getting pollen in the house.

What are some allergy tips that work for you during fall? Share them with us in our comments section.