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Help I have hay fever !

April 16th, 2010

I love the smells of spring but every year it brings on hayfever!

Hayfever is an allergic reaction to pollen.  As well the usual symptoms such as stuffy nose and sneezing, your eyes can also be affected.  They may get red, watery, and very itchy.  This can be extremely irritating, but you may find some of the following tips helpful.

  • If possible,  stay indoors when pollen count is highest (morning, and early evening)
  • Close windows to avoid letting extra pollen in
  • Wear glasses or sunglasses when outside to keep air out of your eyes
  • Avoid wearing contact lenses when you’re having symptoms
  • Antihistamine eye drops such as Opticrom are great for reducing itchiness and soothing your eyes (ask your optician or pharmacist if they’re suitable for you).  However, make sure you don’t use these while wearing contact lenses, as the lenses may absorb the drops.
  • Try not to rub your eyes, as this will only make them worse!

Waterproof eye make up is less likely to run if your eyes are watery.

It makes a difference !

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Wet those dry watery eyes!

April 5th, 2010

Did you know that watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eyes?

If your tears aren’t oily enough, they will evaporate more quickly, leaving your eyes red, gritty and dry.  When this happens, your eyes will compensate by producing extra tears. But because the tears aren’t good quality, they often run down your face, instead of remaining on your eye and doing the job they’re supposed to.

This can be more noticeable when you’re doing concentrated work like reading or driving, as your eyes become irritated when you blink less.  Also, when you’re outdoors, your eyes may also water as the wind also aggravates dry eyes.

There are numerous drops available for dry eyes.  Most of them are quite watery, and give only very temporary relief. Eye ointments will remain in your eyes for longer, but are quite greasy, so are usually only suitable for night time as they can blur your vision..

My favourite eye drops are Hylo-Tear. These have just the right consistency.  They are oily and silky, but not so viscous that they will blur your vision.  Every time you blink, they re-coat the eye, giving lasting relief.

They have a clever pump action, releasing each drop without letting germs in, so you can keep them for 3 months from opening if they’re not already empty!

They are slightly more expensive than other eye drops, but well worth it.

Mary Browne F.A.O.I.

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