Spring is here! And while most of us are getting ready to enjoy the warmer temperatures, for others this season marks the start of seasonal allergies. Several factors, such as the characteristic haze of our archipelago, dust, and pollen grains, are common triggers that cause allergic reactions in a variety of ways.
The first step is to identify allergy symptoms so you're better prepared and can take all necessary precautions. Below, we'll tell you about the most common allergic reactions our patients experience:
- Redness of the eyes.
- Itchy eyes.
- Swelling of the eyes.
- White discharge from the eyes.
- Teary eyes.
- Pain in one or both eyes.
So, how can you avoid these symptoms without letting seasonal allergies ruin your spring fun? Here are 7 simple but effective preventative measures you can put into practice:
Protect your eyes with sunglasses
Even during the Covid pandemic, spring marks the beginning of outdoor gatherings: picnics, barbecues, outings, and more. Make sure to protect your eyes from sun damage caused by ultraviolet rays. Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection and complement that protection with a hat. Doing so will help protect your eyes and face from direct sunlight.
Keep your hands and face clean
This not only helps against viruses, but also against dust and pollen. Dust and pollen particles are the main causes of pollution, so it's very easy to trigger allergies. It could even be something as simple as lightly rubbing your eyes. That's why it's essential to keep your face and hands clean at all times.
Wear glasses instead of contact lenses
Avoid wearing contact lenses this time of year; wear glasses instead. This is because pollen can accumulate on contact lenses and further irritate your eyes. Glasses are a better alternative, as they can protect your eyes from flying pollen and dust particles.
Nivaria Tip: At your next appointment, ask one of our leading ophthalmologists about polarized sunglasses. They offer the dual benefit of protecting your eyes from the sun's harsh glare and the risk of infection from airborne pollutants.
If you're tired of wearing glasses or contact lenses, remember that we have excellent ophthalmological promotions so you can say goodbye to glasses forever with a quick, outpatient procedure. At Clínica Nivaria, we offer LASIK laser refractive surgery , a painless procedure with a negligible recovery time and no side effects.
Protect your eyes from extreme activities
Spring brings with it, and Covid permitting, outdoor sports, bonfires, barbecues, and fireworks. This means greater exposure to extreme heat and smoke, so it's even more important to ensure we're fully protected from their effects. Protect your eyes during these activities and when you go to the beach or the mountains with sunglasses or goggles.
Use an air purifier
Allergens like pollen and dust spread quickly and easily reach our homes. Therefore, to stay fully protected from allergies, it's advisable to invest in an air purifier to ensure a healthy indoor environment.
Keep your eyes moist
Sunny spring days can leave your eyes dry as you venture outside to enjoy the warm weather. Restore lost moisture to your eyes by applying artificial tears, which help lubricate them and improve visual comfort by soothing the ocular surface.
Visit us for a comprehensive eye exam
With the dryness of the spring season just around the corner, the best way to protect your eyes from itching, irritation, and allergies is to visit us for a comprehensive eye exam by one of our leading specialists.
At our clinic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you'll receive a thorough eye exam to detect signs of seasonal allergies and symptoms of other eye conditions. If any changes in your visual health are identified, our ophthalmologist can begin treatment immediately to keep your eyes healthy throughout the year.
If you're experiencing difficulties due to spring allergies, call us today to schedule an evaluation appointment at Clínica Nivaria . Our dedicated team of experts will guide you through every step, offering specialized solutions and treatment options!
