Watch out for eye allergies in the spring

Today, many people have eye allergy problems, mainly because of the pollen that is formed with the arrival of spring. Claiming that eye allergies cause conditions such as itching, redness and swelling in the eyes, Ophthalmologist Op. Dr. Özge Güngör Akkuş made important statements about eye allergies.

Dr. Akkuş states that allergies are more common in childhood and said: “With the arrival of spring, the incidence of eye allergies, which occurs due to the sun’s rays becoming more pronounced and the increase in pollen formation, is high in areas with dry and hot climates like Denizli. This condition is more common in men than in women. In an allergy, the eye releases a substance called histamine, which causes itching, redness, tearing, and swelling of the eyelids. In addition, there is sensitivity to light, especially sunlight. Eye allergies, which usually begin in childhood, diminish by age 10-12 and decrease in severity by age 20-30. Eye allergy affects a person’s quality of life.

“It is wrong to think that it is only seen in spring and progresses to eye allergy”

Stating that in the treatment of eye allergies, it is necessary to stay away from allergens that cause allergies, Ophthalmologist Op. Dr. Özge Güngör Akkuş: “It is beneficial to have the windows closed, especially in the seasons when pollen levels increase. Avoid scented products such as paint, perfumes and chemicals. Don’t go outside when the sun is at its peak. It is useful to use sunglasses in case of forced departure. Applying a cold compress to the eye will help for some time. Allergy is a recurrent and progressive disease. It is only seen in the spring months and the thought of it passing is a false thought. This process may not be the same for every patient. If eye allergies are not diagnosed early, they can cause serious health problems, including vision loss. It is useful to consult a specialist in order not to make progress and, above all, to spend the spring months more calmly. For patients who register at our clinic, we first apply milder drug treatments, but in case of progression we apply much more severe drug treatments.