Allergies · Overview

Hay fever: What do you do?



Itchy and burning eyes, sudden attacks of sneezing, a tickle in your nose – all warning signs for allergy sufferers.

 

In Europe, around one in six people has an allergic reaction to pollen, and this number is steadily increasing. Doctors strongly recommend taking hay fever seriously and seeking medical treatment, as there is a danger that a pollen allergy may develop into allergic asthma.

 

The eyes can be the first organ to indicate an allergy. Common symptoms include itchiness, burning, watering, mucus secretion (particularly in the corners of the eyes), blurred vision, and often deteriorating vision if the eyes are repeatedly vigorously rubbed. The conjunctiva – the part of the eye which is usually white – often becomes redder or more jelly-like than usual. Airborne pollen settles on the surface of the eye’s conjunctiva and triggers an immune response from the body. For this reason, drinking more regularly and rinsing the eyes with clean, clear water is the first and easiest alleviation measure.

 

 

You should also consult an ophthalmologist to determine whether complementary treatment with eye medication or even a visit to an allergist would be appropriate. You can read the reasons for the increase in allergies here (in German).

 

Therapy ranges from treatment with simple drops that have almost no side effects to strong allergy suppressants or oral medication. Allergy sufferers with regularly occurring annual symptoms should be tested in regard to special substances that set the mechanism in motion in the patient. This ensures targeted treatment which is not excessively lengthy.

 

Do you have further questions or would you like a consultation with our specialists? Contact us now! We are your competent ophthalmologist in Zurich and look forward to your visit.