How to Relieve Itchy Eyes From Hayfever

Why does hayfever cause itchy eyes?

Hayfever is an allergic reaction to pollen. This pollen comes from grasses, trees, flowers and other plants, which release fine powder into the air as part of their reproductive cycle. This typically happens in spring and summer in the UK, as this is when most plants reproduce due to the right amount of sunlight and temperature.

Pollen makes your eyes itch because the body produces a natural chemical called ‘histamine’, which causes itching, watering, and swelling. This is an immune response and doesn’t happen to everyone, but, in the stats mentioned earlier, it is clear that it is reaching a majority in the UK population. 

This reaction and the release of histamine are your body’s attempt to rid your eyes of the pollen. Unfortunately, the effects cause uncomfortable symptoms.

How can I stop my eyes itching from hayfever?

Symptoms include itchy, watering and sore eyes as well as blurred vision and tears. This makes everyday tasks such as driving a car dangerous, work and study are constantly interrupted, and it can greatly affect your mood.

Hayfever sufferers often choose the fastest method of relief: rubbing their eyes. Though it may relieve symptoms in the moment, we advise against it. 

Do not rub itchy eyes

Though natural and not typically damaging when your eyes are healthy, rubbing your eyes while you suffer from hayfever can cause serious issues. Rubbing eyes that are already inflamed often leads to more inflammation due to irritating the mast cells (immune cells found throughout the body). This will cause the cells to release even more histamine, making things worse. 

If your hands have pollen or other allergens, such as dust, on them, you may add to the problem, as this will cause another release of histamine. Bacteria on your fingers can also get into your eyes and cause infections like conjunctivitis.

Finally, rubbing your eyes repeatedly can damage and break down cells, leading to corneal scratches. The cornea is the clear dome over the front of your eye that protects your iris and pupil, often referred to as a ‘window’. When scratched, your vision can be blurry or hazy, and your eye will likely hurt. Some cases require ointments or antibiotics, while more extreme cases will need an eyepatch, bandage, or special contact lens to help you heal.

The best relief for itchy eyes

There are several methods you can try to help soothe your eyes from hayfever symptoms.

Antihistamine

The most common solution to sore, itchy eyes is an over-the-counter or prescribed antihistamine. Designed to counteract the effects of histamine created naturally by your body, these medications help reduce inflammation, redness, itchiness, and other allergic reactions. They typically come in tablet form, but can also come as eyedrops, perfect for the quick relief of itchy eyes.

Cold compresses

Ideal for fast and soothing relief, cold compresses are great for reducing swelling. Though a cold compress will feel good on sore and itchy eyes, the effects are only temporary. We would suggest you use this method for immediate relief in line with medication.

Eyewashes

If you feel your eyes are particularly itchy after being somewhere where the pollen count is high, then washing your eyes out safely is a good method to partially soothe them. By using clean water or a saline rinse, you can rid your eyes of particularly large pollen grains, and also dilute smaller grains. Washing your eyes must always be done safely, so use an eye bath for best results.

Clean clothes and hair

Immediately showering and washing your clothes after being outside can greatly help reduce hayfever symptoms. By removing any lingering pollen, sufferers can find some solace when indoors. 

Vision care at Dipple & Conway

Taking care of your eyes is incredibly important, regardless of whether or not you have hayfever. To see one of our expert opticians for an eye test, simply book an appointment at our Norwich, Swaffham or Diss branch. Our teams deliver only the very best, friendly and knowledgeable service, ready to help you and support you with whatever follows.