Optegra offers top tips for healthy eyes this hay fever season

This year’s hay fever season is upon us the temperatures and pollen count continue to rise, noses are beginning to run and eyes are starting to itch.

According to the Met Office, the UK’s one in five hay fever sufferers can expect to experience the frustrating and uncomfortable symptoms well into September, and even beyond.

But according to specialist eye hospital group, Optegra, there are steps we can take to reduce the impact on our eyes.  Itchy, red or watery eyes (also known as allergic conjunctivitis) are key common symptoms of hay fever.  Such irritation of the eyes can be a real cause of physical and emotional distress, often interfering with daily activities, work and sleep.  It is important that hay fever sufferers take positive steps to reduce their exposure to pollen and the unpleasant effect it can have on the eyes.

Top tips:

• Wear wrap-around sunglasses to shield eyes from pollen in the air
• Try not to touch your eyes and certainly do not rub them
• Wash your hands regularly to ensure that they are pollen free, particularly if you have been outside
• Rinse your eyes regularly to ensure they are pollen free
• Keep windows and doors shut to limit pollen entering the house
• Keep car windows shut when driving – use air con instead
• Contact lens wearers should take a break from their lenses when hay fever symptoms appear
• Go make-up free when symptoms are at their worst to avoid additional irritants entering the eyes
• Avoid mowing the grass or working in the garden
• If possible, change your clothes when coming in from outside to prevent the spread of pollen within the house
• Visit your pharmacist or GP for advice on treatments for the eyes.

www.optegra.com

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