If your eyes have been feeling watery, itchy and red with increasing frequency, you’re far from alone. Experts are warning that Britain is facing a surge in eye problems – from conjunctivitis to painful styes – as a toxic combination of pollution and climate change turbocharges allergy season.
Dr Nisa Aslam, a GP and adviser to GoldenEye, said: “Pollen season has arrived, but pollution and climate change are creating a ‘perfect storm’ for allergy sufferers. Symptoms are starting earlier, lasting longer and hitting harder than ever.
“In fact, research suggests that hay fever has tripled in the last 20 years. This means that eye conditions like conjunctivitis, styes and blepharitis, of which allergies are risk factors, are also becoming more common.”
Pollution is making pollen even more aggressive, intensifying the impact on allergy sufferers.
Dr Aslam explained: “According to government guidance on air pollution and airborne allergens, air pollutants – particularly from traffic fumes and other emissions borne out of manufacturing and product processes, greenhouse gases as well as everyday irritants like dust, mould, and cleaning products – can bind to pollen, exacerbating allergies and lowering the threshold at which people react.
Itchy eyes are a common one (Image: Alamy/PA)
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“This means response symptoms can kick in with smaller amounts of allergens. At the same time, climate change is causing a longer pollen season, meaning there is a greater concentration of pollen floating around.
“Even people who’ve never previously suffered from allergy-related symptoms are now facing the wrath of eye irritation. The impact goes beyond itchy eyes, with allergic conjunctivitis, styes and blepharitis linked to heightened exposure and eye rubbing. Luckily, there are ways to reduce pollen exposure and improve eye hygiene to manage symptoms.”
Ways to protect eyes this allergy season
Wear wraparound glasses: Dr Aslam said: “To stop pollen and other allergens from entering your eye area, wraparound sunglasses offer extra protection. If you exercise outside, wraparound sports sunglasses are also wise as they’ll act as a barrier, stopping pollen from entering via the sides of your eyes.”
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes: “It might feel instinctive, but rubbing your eyes can actually make symptoms worse. Plus, if there’s pollen on your hands, this will then transfer directly onto your eyes, increasing irritation and leaving them even itchier and more sensitive.”
Treat symptoms early: “Taking early action to soothe symptoms can stop irritated eyes from developing into an infection, so treat immediately and here I recommend GoldenEye Eye Drops. They contain propamidine isethionate – an antiseptic, not an antibiotic – that stops bacteria from growing and multiplying, and controls the numbers of bacteria causing an infection. These drops also have antifungal properties, too.”
Keep windows closed during high pollen times: “Pollen typically peaks during early morning and evening, so it’s best to keep windows shut during these times to reduce the amount of pollen entering your home and settling on surfaces.”
Swap contacts for glasses: “Eyes feeling irritated? If you’re a contact lens wearer, then this may only add fuel to the fire. Consider swapping contact lenses for glasses during high pollen days, as lenses can trap allergens against the surface of the eye, making you feel more uncomfortable.”
