As pollen levels rise and many people across the UK start experiencing hay fever symptoms, The College of Optometrists has issued new member resources and eye health tips to help the public manage their allergies.
The College has developed a new eye health infographic, pollen calendar, and social media assets for members to share with patients, highlighting the different ways to manage the effects of hay fever.
Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu MCOptom DipTp(IP), Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists, said: “Hay fever season has well and truly arrived. With pollen levels rising and many people across the UK starting to spend more time outside, it’s important to highlight the impact hay fever can have on our eyes and how patients can relieve the symptoms.
“As one of the most common allergic conditions, hay fever can cause considerable discomfort, making your eyes red, itchy and swollen. While the best way to prevent the allergy is to avoid exposure to your pollen triggers, anti-allergy eye drops can be used to help alleviate eye symptoms, as they target the site of discomfort directly. Mast cell stabiliser eye drops are a useful option if patients know when they’re likely to develop their allergy, as they can help prevent the symptoms before they even start, or lessen their impact. During acute episodes, antihistamine eye drops can help treat the allergic reaction more quickly. Both types of eye drops can be prescribed or purchased from local optical practices or pharmacies on the advice of an optometrist. Prescription-only eye drops that combine these effects with reduced dosing are also available, and are particularly useful for the management of more severe cases.”