If you’ve ever caught yourself scratching your itchy, watery eyes during allergy season, you’re not alone. For millions of individuals—particularly contact lens users and children who are allergy-prone—eye irritation can suddenly transform a lovely day into one that’s frustrating. The good news? With the proper approach, you can eliminate those pesky symptoms and get back to seeing the world clearly and comfortably.
Why Eye Allergies Strike Harder for Contact Lens Wearers and Children
For users of contact lenses, the issue is frequently one of exposure. Allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander cling to the surface of your lenses, rendering your eyes more sensitive and reactive. It’s akin to inviting allergens to take up residence on your eyes every day.
Children, on the other hand, are more exposed by nature—they play outside more, rub their eyes more frequently, and haven’t yet developed the good allergy habits of keeping their hands away from their faces. So they’re particularly susceptible to eye-based allergy attacks.
Selecting the Appropriate Eye Drops for Allergy Relief
Fortunately, numerous drops can soothe all that scratchy, irritated eye.
- Antihistamine drops are usually the first response. They shut off the histamines that produce itching, redness, and swelling. Fast-acting over-the-counter brands such as Zaditor and Alaway are safe and effective for adults and children three and up.
- For longer protection, combination drops such as Pataday provide immediate relief and longer-lasting coverage by stabilizing mast cells (the ones that release histamines).
If you wear contact lenses, you may ask yourself whether these drops are safe to use with your lenses. Most are—but it’s a matter of timing. It’s better to take out your contacts first before applying the drops, then after 10 to 15 minutes, reinsert them. This avoids any interaction between the medication and your contact lenses.
Eye Drops and Kids: What Parents Need to Know
Safety is paramount when it comes to children. Not all drops are good for young eyes, particularly those with steroids or those intended solely as decongestants. These must only be used under the advice of a healthcare professional.
If your child has mild symptoms, lubricating eye drops (also referred to as artificial tears) are a mild, child-friendly remedy. They allow irritants to be flushed away and relieve irritation with no threat of stronger side effects. Always read the label for age suggestions and ingredients before applying any drops to your child.
Getting drops into a child’s eyes can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be a battle. Try explaining what you’re doing in simple, reassuring language. Use the “tilt-back” method (where they lie back or lean their head against something), and make it into a small routine—maybe with a favorite song or reward—to help ease any anxiety.
More Ways to Keep Eye Allergies Under Control
Eye drops are useful, but they are only part of the equation. Some simple habits can contribute significantly toward preventing allergies, particularly among contact lens wearers and children.
For contact lens wearers:
- Think of changing to daily wear lenses, which do not accumulate allergens.
- Try hydrogen peroxide-based cleaning fluids for reusable lenses, and rinse thoroughly to eliminate debris.
- Skip wearing lenses on heavy allergy days if your eyes are particularly sensitive.
Everyone:
- Shower and wash your face before bedtime to take pollen off your skin and hair.
- Close windows and use air conditioning to keep allergens out of your home.
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors—they’re an easy, effective barrier against airborne irritants.
Children:
- Restrict playing outside during high-pollen periods (usually early morning and early evening).
- Use air cleaners in their bedroom or play area.
- Follow good eye hygiene—gently clean eyelids with a wet cotton ball if necessary.
- A cold compress applied over the eyes can be a wonder for calming itchiness and puffiness.
Eye allergies can be a nuisance, but they don’t have to take over your season. With the right eye drops, smart lens care, and a few simple lifestyle tweaks, you can protect your eyes—or your child’s—from the worst of allergy season. Whether you’re battling pollen, dust, or something else entirely, a little planning can help you stay clear-eyed and comfortable all year round.