Do you suffer from eye allergies in Rochester Hills?

Are you one of the estimated 40% of the general population that suffers from eye allergies in Rochester Hills?  If so, you know it's not a laughing matter.  For many people who suffer from spring allergies, the warmer weather brings the onset of sneezing, coughing and itchy, watery eyes.  Eye allergies, also called "allergic conjunctivitis," are a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens--pollen, mold, pet dander and dust mites--that get in the eyes and cause inflammation of the tissue that lines the inner eyelid.  It is estimated that 20% of allergy sufferers miss work, and 45% report decreased productivity as a result of allergies.

So what can you do to lessen your misery during spring allergy season, especially if you wear contact lenses?  Even if you don't generally experience problems wearing contact lenses throughout most of the year, allergy season can be especially challenging.  Extended wear time and infrequent lens replacement are two of the main reasons contact lens wearers face more prevalent symptoms.

Dr. Mark J. Roy, optometrist at Oakland Optometry, suggests revisiting your contact lense cleaning methods and/or using daily disposable lenses.  That way, the lenses--along with the allergens that may adhere to them--can be discarded at the end of the day.  And, if possible, reduce contact lense wearing time if your symptoms heighten.  In most cases, allergy-related conjunctivitis can be remedied with prescription eye drops prescribed by an optometrist.

Fortunately, eye allergies can be curtailed or even prevented by following some simple recommendations including:  avoid rubbing or touching your eye; never share contact lense cases with someone else and replace cases frequently; wash hands often; wash bedding, especially pillow cases in hot water; and avoid sharing or even wearing eye makeup if symptoms persist. 

To learn more about combating eye allergies, call Dr. Mark J. Roy , Oakland Optometry, 248.373.6500.