Hayfever is a common allergic reaction that affects nearly 18 million people in the UK every year from Spring to Autumn.

Usually, hayfever is caused by a reaction to the different types of pollen in the air. The different pollen types vary and include tree pollen, grass pollen and wood pollen. Grass pollen is the most common type that many people are allergic to and affects sufferers from May to June.

How Hayfever Affects Your Eyes

Hayfever sufferers usually experience symptoms that affect their eyes, with the most common symptoms including itchy, irritated, watery eyes. This discomfort occurs due to pollen landing on or near your eyes, causing irritation. Your eyes will then become red and inflamed as a response to fight off the irritant that has entered the eye. Typically, your eyes will also become watery as the eye produces excess tears to help remove the pollen particles.

Managing and Treating Hayfever

There are certain measures you can take to manage and treat your hayfever throughout the year.

• Stay indoors when the pollen count is high. Most weather apps now tell you how high the pollen count is each day. It is advised to avoid going out mid-morning and early-evening as this is usually when the pollen is usually at it’s highest.
• Keep windows and doors closed, this prevents pollen from getting into your house and settling on any fabrics and furniture in the house.
• If you wear contact lenses it is advised to wear your glasses on days where you may be more affected, or wear sunglasses to provide an extra barrier between the pollen and your eyes.
• Shower and change your clothes after spending time outside to remove any pollen that may be on your body or clothes.
• Take antihistamines before you come into contact with pollen, to help reduce the severity of your symptoms
• Use anti-allergy eyedrops as a protective defence and to soothe the eyes should they become irritated. If you wear contact lenses make sure the eyedrops are preservative free and suitable for use with lenses.

If you have any questions about hayfever and your eyes, or the best products to use, speak to a member of our team today.