It’s the first day of spring and it is bringing warmer weather and longer days. While the flowers bloom, the season introduces challenges, especially for contact lens wearers. However, taking a few precautions can help keep your eyes clear and comfortable throughout the season.

Why Do My Eyes Itch During Spring?

Spring allergies are a common cause of eye discomfort. More airborne allergens and environmental changes can lead to itching, redness, and irritation. Here are the main reasons why:

• Pollen and season allergies
• Dry and windy conditions
• Histamine release
• Eye rubbing and irritation
• Airborne irritants such as dust, pet dander, and chemicals

Health Tips for Contact Lens Wearers in Spring

While spring allergies can make wearing contacts more challenging, a few adjustments can help keep your eyes comfortable and clear.

Change Your Contacts to Daily Disposables

Daily disposable contact lenses are the best solution especially if you frequently experience itchy eyes during this season. Unlike monthly or bi-weekly lenses, daily lenses are discarded after a single use, preventing allergen buildup. This means pollen, dust, and other irritants don’t have a chance to accumulate on the lenses and eventually cause discomfort.

Keep Your Lenses and Hands Clean

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your contact lenses to avoid transferring pollen or bacteria to your eyes. If you wear reusable lenses, clean them every night using a fresh solution. Never reuse an old solution or rinse with tap water, as this can introduce harmful microorganisms. Keeping your lens case clean and replacing it regularly helps maintain eye health.

Use Lubricating Eye Drops

Allergy season can make your eyes feel dry and irritated. Moreover, preservative-free lubricating eye drops can help flush out irritants and keep your eyes hydrated throughout the day.

Look for eye drops specifically formulated for contact lens wearers, as some regular eye drops contain ingredients that can damage lenses or cause discomfort. If you need antihistamine drops for allergies, consult your eye doctor to ensure they are safe to use with contact lenses.

Or, Consider Allergy Eye Drops

If over-the-counter allergy medications aren’t enough, antihistamine eye drops can provide targeted relief from itching and redness. Some allergy drops can be used while wearing contact lenses, while others require waiting a few minutes before inserting lenses. Always check with your eye doctor before using any medicated drops.

Wear Sunglasses Outdoors

Sunglasses can also act as a barrier against airborne allergens. Wraparound sunglasses provide extra coverage, preventing pollen and dust from reaching your eyes. If you wear prescription contacts, invest in sunglasses with UV protection to reduce strain on your eyes while spending time outdoors.

Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

Rubbing your eyes can make symptoms worse by spreading allergens and increasing inflammation. The pressure from rubbing can damage the delicate tissues of the eye and lead to long-term issues, especially for contact lens wearers.

Instead of rubbing, use a cold compress to soothe itchy eyes or apply doctor-approved allergy drops. Keeping a pack of tissues handy can also help you manage discomfort without direct contact with your eyes.

Reduce Indoor Allergens

Pollen and dust can enter your home through open windows and settle on surfaces, making symptoms worse.

To minimize exposure, keep windows closed on high-pollen days and use an air purifier to filter allergens from indoor air. Wash your hands and face after spending time outdoors, and regularly clean pillowcases, towels, and soft furnishings where allergens can accumulate.

Schedule an Eye Exam When Needed

Spring is a great time for an eye check-up. An eye care professional (ECP) can assess whether your current contact lenses are still the best fit for your needs and recommend alternatives if allergies are causing persistent issues. If your prescription has changed, updating your lenses can improve comfort and clarity throughout the season.

Planning to Change Your Contacts? Shop Contacts America!

Itchy eyes don’t have to ruin the season. By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your vision clear and comfortable, even during peak allergy season.

If you’re looking for contact lenses that help manage spring allergies, shop at Contacts America for a wide selection of daily and allergy-friendly lenses.