Eye Allegry

Eyes are the second most complex organ next to the brain. Your eyes have 256 characteristics that differentiate them from other eyes—a fact that favors retinal scans over fingerprints, which only have 40 unique features. They also have the ability to heal quickly. In a word, your eyes are miraculous. Eyes can also say a lot about your current health. Here are three common eye problems and what they mean:

1. Redness: Redness can be caused by a subconjunctival hemorrhage. This is characterized by a patch of blood on the white of the eye. Though it may look frightening, it is just a bruise right under the eye surface and will typically clear out within three weeks. Redness can also be attributed to allergies. If you notice your eyes are red, watery and incessantly itching, you may be suffering from seasonal allergies or an allergic reaction to something different in your environment. For instance, if you started using a new face wash in the last few days and your eyes flared up, you man need to try a different brand. A simple fix to allergies, in general, is an over the counter allergy medication.
2. Pinkeye: Out of all the eye problems listed here today, pinkeye is certainly the one to avoid. You may have pinkeye if your eyes are itchy, red, and have a white or yellowish discharge. Cold symptoms like a runny nose often come with pinkeye. Because pinkeye is contagious, be attentive to washing your hands often and avoid sharing towels. If you think you have contracted pinkeye, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately so you can receive proper treatment.
3. Dryness: Dry eye can usually be attributed to your environment, daily routine, and even hormonal changes. If you work at a computer all day, you blink only half as much as you should, leaving your eyes less lubricated. To moisten your eyes, purchase some artificial tears from your local convenience store and use them a few times a day. If the dryness persists, call your doctor. In rare cases, dryness may be associated with arthritis.

If you have concerns about your eye health, call the Eye Associates today at MERIDIAN: 208-342-5151 or CALDWELL: 208-459-0717.

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Spring is upon us, which means it’s about time to get outdoors and enjoy the warm weather. But for some, spring also means the onset of allergies and other things that can bother your eyes. Here’s a list of common tips to care for your eyes in the springtime.

Wear the Right Eyewear
If you spend a lot of time around water, polarized lenses can help reduce the intense reflection of the sun against water, cars and even cement. Look for sunglasses that block at least 99% of the sun’s harmful rays. And remember: the sun can damage your eyes year-round if you’re not careful, not just when the temperatures get warmer.

Protect Your Eyes During Sports
Outdoor sports are a natural part of the warmer weather, the most common being baseball, tennis, golf, and soccer. And with outdoor sports comes the increased risk of an eye injury. If you play outdoor sports, be sure to wear proper eye protection to avoid an eye injury.

Pinpoint Allergies
If you have red, teary and itchy eyes, it could be because of spring eye allergies, but it’s also possible that it could be due to something more serious like an eye infection, inflammation or dry eye syndrome. Talk to your doctor to determine the cause of your irritated eyes.

Cover Up
For those lazy days at the beach or the pool, of if you’re in the sun for a long period, wear sunscreen and also a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays.

Want to learn more about keeping your eyes safe and healthy during the springtime?
Contact our office or call 208.342.5151 in Meridian or 208.459.0717 in Caldwell. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Eye allergies are no fun. With the warm temperatures come a myriad of triggers for those who suffer from allergies. This can be attributed to the onslaught of grass and weed pollen, as well as mold, dust and animal dander. Your eyes may burn, water, itch and turn red. You may also have an increased sensitivity to light. If you suffer from eye allergies, take heart. There are ways to deal with (and treat) your allergies. Check out the following tips:

1. Wash your face. One of the simplest things you can do to treat watery, itchy eyes is to rinse your face with a washcloth, ridding pesky allergens of sticking to your eyelashes and skin. And use a bit of water to rinse out your eyes and release any allergens that may be trapped.
2. Avoid exposure to allergy triggers. Changing your environment is a great way to combat allergies. If you know when the pollen count is high, make it a point to stay indoors. If your pet triggers your allergies, make sure they don’t go in certain rooms of the house, like your bedroom, in order for you to have a designated environment that’s free of elements that bring on an allergy outbreak.
3. Use eye drops. Your doctor can prescribe you with antihistamine eye drops, or you may opt for an over-the-counter variety, which is also very effective. That being said, it’s best to avoid eye drops that contain a decongestant, as they can actually worsen your allergy symptoms.
4. Take an antihistamine. An oral antihistamine is a proven way to take preventive measures against your allergies. Nasal sprays can also be helpful.
5. Hands off. Touching your face and rubbing your eyes can make allergy symptoms worse. And if you wear contacts, switch to glasses for a period of time to find relief.

Are You Looking for Eye Allergy Relief?

To learn more about effective treatment for eye allergies, or for any other questions regarding our services, contact our office or call 208.342.5151 in Meridian or 208.459.0717 in Caldwell. We look forward to hearing from you!

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