Are you experiencing itchy eyes? Hay fever symptoms and advice

People suffering with itchy eyes in recent weeks may have been experiencing an early start to the hay fever season. With increasing temperatures in the UK, recent research indicates that hay fever symptoms are now starting earlier than the traditional hay fever season, with many people experiencing symptoms in early March and even in January and February.

Pollen from trees including hazel, yew and alder is released from January, while others including birth, plane, oak and ash trees release pollen from March.

Daniel Hardiman-McCartney MBE FCOptom, clinical adviser at The College of Optometrists, says: “One of the most common allergic conditions in the UK, hay fever is triggered by an allergic reaction to different types of pollen. Pollen grains can set off an allergic reaction in the conjunctiva (the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye) which causes watery, red and itchy eyes. This may cause your eyes and eyelids to swell and you may also experience a gritty feeling in your eyes.”

Five steps for managing hay fever symptoms in your eyes

• Avoid going out in the early evening and mid-morning when the pollen count is at its highest. Keep windows and doors closed and surfaces clear with a damp duster when the pollen count is high.
• Wear sunglasses when you are outdoors – wraparound styles offer more protection from pollen.
• Wear glasses rather than your contact lenses – especially when the pollen count is high.
• Rinse your eyes regularly – use a dedicated eye wash to remove any dust and pollen from the surface of the eyes. Also take regular showers and change your clothes regularly to remove the pollen from your skin and clothes.
• Speak to your local optometrist for advice about taking eye drops.

Which eye drops should you opt for?

• Anti-allergy drops target the site of inflammation directly. These work by preventing the allergic reaction and release of histamine and can help to treat symptoms before they start. If you wear contact lenses remember to check if you can use the drops while your lenses are in. These can be prescribed by your optometrist and purchased from your local optical practice or pharmacy.
• Antihistamine eye drops are another option with a more immediate effect. These work by blocking the action of histamine released from mast cells during the allergic reaction and can help reduce the severity of symptoms quickly when they arise.
• Steroid eye drops may be prescribed by your optometrist or GP in severe cases. These are powerful anti-inflammatories but can have serious side effects, so treatment is closely monitored.

Daniel Hardiman-McCartney MBE FCOptom, clinical adviser at The College of Optometrists, says: “Speak to your local optometrist for advice about the best way to manage and treat itchy or swollen eyes caused by hay fever. Optometrists are based at your local opticians and optical practices on the high street and are your first port if call for eye health care and advice.”

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  Pollen calendar

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  Eye drops used in an eye examination