Managing fall allergies while wearing contact lenses

By Dr. Giovanna Olivares, OD, FAAO; Johnson & Johnson Vision Director & Staff Writer

The changing of green leaves to a landscape of reds, oranges and yellows is a telltale sign that fall is here. Unfortunately, it can also mean the arrival of seasonal allergies. If you love the crisp autumn air but dread the itchy, watery eyes that come with it, you're not alone. In this blog post, we'll explore the impact of fall allergies on eye health and share valuable tips for managing them while wearing contact lenses. With the right strategies, you can enjoy the beauty of the season without compromising your visual clarity or comfort.

Understanding fall seasonal allergies

Many associate seasonal allergies with spring alone, but fall can pack a punch, too. Fall allergies, often triggered by ragweed pollen, mold spores, and dust mites, can wreak havoc on your eyes. The common symptoms include:

Itching
Irritation
Redness
Swelling
Excessive watering

Allergy tips for contact lens wearers

Allergies are a nuisance all on their own, but wearing contact lenses can add a layer of difficulty. The itching can tempt you to touch your eyes, which can introduce germs, move your lens out of place and even scratch your eye. Here are some tips to follow to help keep your eyes safe and comfortable.

1.Minimize allergen exposure

Keep windows closed. This can prevent pollen and mold spores from entering your living space from outside.
Use air purifiers HEPA filters to help remove allergens from the air.
Practice good hygiene by washing your hands, avoiding rubbing your eyes, and changing clothes after spending time outdoors.

2.Practice proper lens hygiene (for reusable lenses)

Using the instructions provided by your eye care professional, clean and disinfect your lenses regularly to help remove allergens and debris.
Use preservative-free solutions to minimize the risk of irritation and sensitivity caused by certain chemicals

3.Opt for the convenience and comfort of daily disposable lenses

Fresh and clean lenses every day help to both minimize the accumulation of allergens and reduce the risk of irritation. Preservatives in contact lens solutions can be a source of irritation in some people. With daily disposables, you don't need to worry about cleaning and storing your lenses, eliminating the exposure to preservatives in the solutions. Simply discard the lenses at the end of the day, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable experience.

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4.Allergy medications and eye drops

Consider using over-the-counter allergy medications and eye drops to alleviate symptoms. Consult with your healthcare provider for appropriate recommendations of medications and how to use them safely with your contact lenses.

5.Consult with an eye care professional

Schedule an appointment with your optician to discuss your seasonal allergy symptoms and explore suitable contact lens options.

Don’t let seasonal allergies slow you down

By following these eye health tips, you could find some relief and take in the changing colors of autumn without needing to reach for the tissue box. If you need more help managing your symptoms, schedule an appointment with your optician to discuss your allergies and explore contact lens options.

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About the author

Giovanna E. Olivares, OD, FAAO is the Global Director, Specialty Platforms Research & Development, at Johnson & Johnson Vision Care (JJVC). In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the strategy, design, and development of new products to support the company’s global Astigmatism and Presbyopia platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs About Allergies

Why do my eyes itch when I wear contacts?

As histamines flood your body, your eyes water and itch. Your symptoms can be worse when you wear your contacts, as the lenses may trap allergens. Allergies to contact lens cleaning solutions and the lenses themselves may also cause itching.

Do contacts make eye allergies worse?

Contact lenses attract airborne allergens, so bi-weekly and weekly contact lenses can actually make your eye allergies worse if they are not cleaned properly after each wear.

When should I see an eye doctor for allergy-related contact lens discomfort?

If you experience persistent redness, pain, blurred vision, or excessive tearing, consult an eye care professional to rule out infections or other eye conditions.

Footnotes

* Please note professional eye examination and fitting fees may apply. GCC residents 18 or over only. One trial per person. Eligibility subject to Eye Care Professional approval. Participating Eye Care Professionals only. See link for full terms and conditions.

All ACUVUE^® contact lenses have UV Blocking to help provide protection against transmission of harmful UV radiation to the cornea and into the eye. UV absorbing contact lenses are NOT substitutes for protective UV absorbing eyewear such as UV absorbing goggles or sunglasses because they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area. You should continue to use UV absorbing eyewear as directed by your Eye Care Professional.

For more information on proper wear, care and safety, talk to your Eye Care Professional and read the Instructions for Use.

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