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With the pollen count being exceptionally high this summer, Specsavers Donegal is highlighting what hay fever sufferers can do to protect their eyes and ears from symptoms.
Hay fever, a common allergic reaction to pollen, can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms including itchy, watery, or red eyes, sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, and itchiness in the back of the throat, nose, and ears. While often seen as a seasonal nuisance, these symptoms can be debilitating, preventing individuals from fully enjoying the summer months.
Protecting Your Eyes from Pollen:
For many, hay fever manifests most acutely in the eyes, leading to irritation, inflammation, and blurred vision, especially for contact lens wearers. Specsavers Donegal offers several solutions and recommendations:
- Wraparound Sunglasses: A simple yet effective barrier, wraparound sunglasses can significantly reduce the amount of pollen reaching the eyes, alleviating irritation.
- Switching to Glasses: During peak pollen season, contact lens wearers experiencing discomfort may find relief by temporarily switching to glasses.
- Daily Disposable Lenses: For those who prefer contact lenses, daily disposables can be a more hygienic option during hay fever season, as they reduce the build-up of allergens on the lens surface.
- Specialised Eye Drops: Specsavers optometrists can recommend a range of eye drops specifically designed to combat hay fever symptoms, including preservative-free options for dry eyes, mast cell stabilisers to prevent inflammation, and antihistamine drops to ease symptoms. Eyelid wipes are also available to help remove pollen and soothe irritation.
- Regular Eye Washes: Rinsing eyes regularly with an appropriate eye wash can help flush out pollen.
It is particularly important for contact lens wearers to be vigilant, as itchy, red, and watery eyes can make contact lenses incredibly uncomfortable and even impair vision. Specsavers Donegal encourages anyone experiencing these issues to speak to their optician about the best course of action.
Addressing Ear Discomfort:
While less commonly discussed, hay fever can also cause itchiness and discomfort in the ears due to the allergic reaction affecting the Eustachian tubes. Specsavers Donegal audiology services can provide guidance and support for these symptoms.
Persistent itchiness or a feeling of fullness in the ears during hay fever season can be very irritating. While not directly related to hearing loss, the discomfort can be significant. Specsavers Donegal’s audiology team can offer advice on managing these symptoms and rule out any other underlying ear health concerns.
Beyond Hay Fever: When to Seek Professional Advice:
Specsavers Donegal also stresses the importance of distinguishing hay fever from other, potentially more serious, eye or ear conditions.
Persistent or worsening symptoms, or those that do not respond to over-the-counter treatments, should always be checked by a professional. Uncomfortable and sore eyes could indicate an eye infection or conjunctivitis, while achy and red eyes might be a sign of iritis, which requires prompt attention.
Top Tips for Hay Fever Sufferers from Specsavers Donegal:
- Monitor Pollen Counts: Stay informed about daily pollen levels to take necessary precautions.
- Shower and Change: Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove trapped pollen.
- Keep Windows Closed: Limit pollen entry into your home by keeping windows and doors closed, especially during peak pollen times (mid-morning/evening).
- Vaseline Barrier: Apply a small amount of Vaseline around your nostrils to help trap pollen grains.
- Cool Compresses: Use a cool compress or chilled eye drops to soothe irritated eyes.
For more information on managing hay fever symptoms and to book an appointment, visit your local Specsavers Donegal store: https://www.specsavers.ie/
