May 11, 2021
allergies, allergy, allergy shots, allergy symptoms, antihistamine eye drops, Dr. Marc Goldstein, eye allergies, eye allergy, eye drops, hayfever, kids with allergies, spring

Many springtime allergy sufferers rely on oral antihistamines to address a range of allergy symptoms.   And according to many patients, one of the more annoying issues which is not always resolved is itchy eyes.  Dr. Goldstein, Director of The Asthma Center, explains, “Spring pollen season is definitely the worst time of year for ocular allergies, and many spring hayfever sufferers are experiencing intense eye allergy symptoms.”  Outside of oral antihistamines there are antihistamine eye drops, which work quicker but often sting on initial application.  This can make an already irritating situation even more maddening.

Bausch & Lomb seem to have found a solution.  They are now manufacturing a new over the counter eye drop – Alaway Preservative Free.  Obviously, these drops do not contain any preservatives and this can be a game changer for many.  Preservatives can cause additional irritation to puffy, sore eyes.  This can be a problem especially for children.  Not only are eye drops difficult to administer to children in general, but a painful experience can make it even harder in the future.  Preservative free eye drops can alleviate this issue.  It is important to note that Alaway drops are safe to use with anyone over the age of 3.  In addition, they are fast acting – working within a few minutes – and last up to 12 hours.  Not only do the drops address itchiness, they also work to reduce allergic inflammation.

Outside of oral and eye drop antihistamines, it is important to know some basic ways to reduce allergy itchiness:

• Wear sunglasses or glasses outdoors to limit exposure of pollen to your eyes.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses, or switch to daily disposable contacts to avoid allergens building up on the lenses.
• Wash your hands and face frequently, including eyebrows.
• Change your pillowcase often.
• Visit our allergists at The Asthma Center to determine the cause of your allergies.  It may also be necessary to get prescription eye drops or begin allergen immunotherapy (shots).

If you think that Alaway Preservative Free eye drops could be a fitting solution for your spring allergies, feel free to ask one of our physicians at your next visit.