With allergy season upon us in full force, many contact lens wearers are experiencing red, itchy watering eyes. The best course of action will depend on the individual and the severity of symptoms.

Allergies are caused by chemicals called antigens that create a physiological reaction resulting in symptoms. These are usually ocular redness, tearing and most often itchiness. The best way to decrease allergic reactions is to avoid the antigen. Environmentally, this becomes quite difficult unless one stays in side all the time with the air conditioner on. The other alternative is the reduce the offending agent, interfere with the physiological reaction and treat the symptoms.

Soft contact lenses absorb matter and act as a reservoir for the antigens, slowly releasing them into the eye. Therefore, the type of lens and cleaning methods play a major role in step number one. In very bad allergies, daily disposable contact lenses work well since they are replaced with out any secondary contact with the eye.The other alternative is to wear a very good quality lens that sheds there deposits. Gas permeable lenses work the best in this regard.

Cleaning the lenses is part two. Since allergies trigger certain reactions, and most people with an allergy to one thing will frequently be allergic to other things as well, the best solution for cleaning lenses in allergic folks is a hydrogen peroxide system. Solutions such as AOSept, Oxysept and clear care are the most commonly used for this purpose.

Treatment pharmacologically is the third and most physically rewarding of these steps. In bad allergies, the first step is often with a mild topical steroid eye drop. These can be used for several days to 1-2 weeks depending on the severity of the case. This will bring relief to the patient while reducing or eliminating contact lens wear concomitally. The next step is to begin a long term therapy to maintain comfort and reduce the allergixc symptoms. This is best done with a drop like Patanol or Pataday. These drups reduce the symptoms while blocking the chemical reaction. These drops can be used for prolonged periods of time.

In short, when allergies strike, stop contact lens wear and see your eye doctor as soon as possible. Enjoy your summer!!

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