Spring Eye Itch on the Rise: What to Do Before and After Going Out

Before going out

• Check the day's pollen count and wind conditions; when the count is high, spend less time outdoors
• Use eye and nasal medicines in advance as your doctor advises
• Wear well-sealed goggles or framed glasses to reduce contact with allergens

While outside

Avoid areas with dense grass, flower beds and trees. Choose to go out in the morning before the dew has dried, or after rain. Do not rub your eyes; you can rinse them with artificial tears. When cycling or spending a long time outdoors, protect your eyes, and when it is windy, keep your time outside as short as possible.

After coming home

Take off your coat, wash your hands and face, and rinse your nasal passages if needed. You can rinse the surface of your eyes with artificial tears. Do not dry bedding or masks outdoors. If eye itch keeps getting worse, or you have eye pain or changes in vision, see a doctor promptly.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.