Winter and eye allergies: How to manage seasonal irritation – News18

Winter eye allergies can be a frustrating and painful condition, but with the right knowledge and management strategies, you can minimize their impact on your daily life.

Winter is a season that many of us look forward to, bringing with it cozy moments and festive cheer. However, for some people, the winter months come with an unexpected challenge – winter eye allergies. Also known as allergic conjunctivitis, these allergies are the body’s immune response to allergens in the air. Dr. Mandeep Singh Basu, Director, Dr. Basu Eye Care Center helps us know what are eye allergies in winter, common allergies during the season, symptoms, triggers, and how to protect your eyes and maintain clear vision. Effective management strategies for

What causes eye allergies in winter?

Eye allergies occur in winter when the immune system overreacts to certain airborne substances that can irritate the eyes. While allergens such as pollen are more common in other seasons, winter has its own set of allergens, including:

1. Dust mitesThese microscopic creatures thrive in warm, indoor environments, especially in the colder months when windows are kept closed.
2. Pet danderPets like cats and dogs shed tiny flakes of skin, which can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
3. Mold sporesMold grows in damp places, such as basements, bathrooms, and behind walls, and can be more prevalent in the winter due to increased humidity indoors.
   

   Winter Eye Allergy Symptoms

   Winter eye allergies often manifest as eye discomfort, which causes several common symptoms:

4. itchyOne of the most common symptoms of eye allergies is the constant urge to rub the eyes.
5. HeadlineBlood vessels in the eyes can dilate, making the eyes appear red and swollen.
6. to tearExcessive tearing is the body’s irritation response, trying to expel the allergen.
7. swellingThe eyelids and the area around the eyes may become swollen and inflamed.
8. Blurred visionAllergies can cause blurred vision due to excessive tearing or inflammation in the eyes.

What increases the risk of winter eye allergies?

Several factors can increase the chance of an eye allergy flare-up during the winter months:

1. Indoor heatingWhen indoor heating systems are used, they often lead to dry air, which can irritate the eyes and make them more susceptible to irritation and allergens.
2. Close quarters and reduce ventilation.During the winter, houses are tightly sealed to retain heat, causing poor air circulation. This can allow allergens to build up in the environment, exacerbating allergic reactions.
3. Pet danderHousehold pets, such as cats and dogs, carry allergens in their fur and skin flakes. During the winter, people often spend more time indoors with their pets, increasing the risk of exposure.
4. Traveling in carsA long drive or trip in a car with dry, hot air can also cause dry eyes and allergies.

Precautions for Winter Eye Allergies

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate allergies from our environment, there are several effective preventative measures you can take to reduce and manage eye allergies during winter:

1. Keep your house cleanRegular cleaning can help reduce the presence of dust, mold, and pet dander. Vacuuming carpets, washing bedding, and cleaning surfaces regularly can reduce allergen buildup.
2. Use an air purifier.Air purifiers with HEPA filters can help filter airborne allergens and improve indoor air quality.
3. Maintain adequate ventilationIf possible, open windows briefly to let fresh air into your home. Make sure the air vents and ducts are cleaned regularly to avoid circulating dust.
4. Wash your hands frequently.Avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands, as this can transfer allergens to the sensitive eye area.
5. Avoid pets in the bedroom.If pet dander is a trigger, try keeping pets out of your bedroom to reduce exposure.
   

   How to control dry and irritated eyes in winter

   Management of dry and irritated eyes is important to prevent further discomfort and long-term problems. Here are some strategies to keep your eyes moist and comfortable throughout the season:

6. Use a humidifier: If the air inside your home is dry due to indoor heating, using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and help prevent dry eyes.
7. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps retain moisture in the eyes, keeping them naturally hydrated.
8. Ayurvedic Eye Drops: Consult an Ayurvedic doctor for eye drops made with natural ingredients that can help soothe and lubricate the eyes, relieve dryness and irritation.
9. Protect eyes from outside: Protect your eyes from cold air and UV rays by wearing sunglasses when going outside. This will protect your eyes from environmental stressors that can trigger allergic reactions.

Avoid smoky and polluted environments: Smoke, pollution and other irritants can aggravate eye allergies. Avoid exposure to smoky areas and polluted environments whenever possible.

When to consult an eye specialist

If your eye allergy symptoms persist despite precautions or worsen over time, it is important to seek medical advice. A specialist can assess the severity of your condition and prescribe appropriate treatment. If you have pre-existing conditions such as dry eye syndrome, be sure to get regular checkups to monitor your eye health.

Ayurvedic and Home Remedies for Winter Eye Allergy (Optional)

Ayurveda offers several natural remedies to soothe irritated eyes during the winter months:

1. Wash your eyes with rose waterRose water is known for its cooling and soothing properties. It can be used as a mild eye wash to clean the eyes and relieve irritation.
2. Cold compressA cold compress can help reduce swelling and reduce itching and redness. Simply place a clean, cool cloth over your closed eyes for comfort. Winter eye allergies can be a frustrating and painful condition, but with the right knowledge and management strategies, you can minimize their impact on your daily life. By understanding the triggers and taking precautions such as keeping your home clean, using an air purifier, staying hydrated, and protecting your eyes from environmental factors, you can protect your eyes from harsh winter conditions. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure your eye health stays clear and strong throughout the season.