To Witness The Glory Of Spring
Employ These Eye Care Basics

by Darline Turner Lee, Physician Assistant, ACSM Exercise Specialist

Article Last Reviewed: Sept. 9, 2006

Spring has sprung and it’s a beautiful sight to behold. Along the streets the trees, lawns, bushes and flowers present an array of colors. The days are sunny and warm. The outdoors beckon to us to come out and play. Austinites heed the call. Passing by Town Lake one can’t help but notice the parade of joggers, walkers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Eye protection is seldom the first thought when setting out for a day of sun and fun. However, as anyone who has experienced eye irritation, glaring sunlight or mild injury can attest, when the eyes have it, you’ve had it. Make enjoying the spring sunshine and scenery easy on the eyes—literally. Before you race out the door, consider these common eye maladies and their preventions and treatments.

Allergic Conjunctivitis-Allergies are as native to the Austin area as the bluebonnets. People who’ve never had allergy symptoms before, move to Austin and develop allergies. For some lucky folks, the symptoms are seasonal. For many an unlucky soul the symptoms, due to allergens present throughout the year, are perennial.

In my opinion, the worst symptom is the itchy, watery eyes. It feels like there are tiny grains of sand in my eyes and I can’t stop rubbing them. I become caught in a vicious cycle of itch rub itch rub. The blood vessels become engorged and the whites of my eyes take on the characteristic red, watery glow. These are the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that lines the exposed portion of the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids, and their irritation gives rise to the name conjunctivitis. With puffy lids and barely able to see, I reach for relief.

One can treat allergic conjunctivitis by taking allergy medication. Over the counter and prescription oral allergy medications address the itchy watery eyes-although not immediately because the drug first has to be digested. Over the counter medications also come with unwanted drowsiness.

Cool compresses provide some relief but only when the compress remains cold and in place (not always practical).

Eye drops are a very effective and expedient way to get relief for allergic conjunctivitis with few side effects. Eye drops available in your local pharmacy typically contain both an antihistamine and a decongestant. Relief usually comes within minutes. Consult with your doctor to be sure the problem is only allergic conjunctivitis and not something more serious. Particularly stubborn cases of allergic conjunctivitis may require prescription medication.

Sensitive individuals should avoid allergens as much as possible. The late morning and early afternoon hours are when pollens are released into the air so try to avoid going outside during these times. At home and in your cars, keep the windows up and use the air conditioning. Wash your hands often and don’t rub your eyes. Consult with your doctor or eye care professional about wearing contact lenses when your eyes are irritated.

Foreign Substances- With the warm weather comes the desire to beautify your personal environment by gardening. When you prepare your gardening tools for the season, don’t forget to prepare your first aid kit with the items needed to treat an accident.

First and foremost, protect your eyes. A pair of sunglasses or goggles can prevent foreign substances from being accidentally introduced into the eyes. In the event of an injury to the eye, the following can help until medical attention can be obtained:

Flush the affected eye with sterile saline. You can purchase saline solutions at the pharmacy and store them for use. (You can also use the saline solutions marketed for use with contact lenses). Check the expiration dates annually and change the stored solution as needed. If a chemical such as fertilizer has been introduced into the eye, contact a local hospital or the poison control center (1-800-222-1222) to see what should be used as a flush and seek medical attention immediately.

Have eye patches available. If a large particle becomes lodged in the eye, do not attempt to remove it. Patch the eye with sterile gauze or some other very clean cloths and seek medical attention immediately.

Sunlight-UV Exposure-Our eyes need protection from damaging ultra violet rays like the rest of our body. Damage from sunlight can cause cataracts and macular degeneration over time resulting in lost sight. Cancers of the conjunctiva and eyelids can develop as a result of excessive sun exposure. To avoid ocular damage:

Use a sunscreen that is gentle enough for the sensitive area around the eyes.

Wear sunglasses that offer ninety percent to one hundred percent protection from UV rays. The glasses must completely cover the eye, including lids, and wrap around to the temples so that light cannot enter from the sides.

Wear a hat. Significant exposure comes directly from above. A wide brimmed hat will prevent this exposure and offer an added layer of protection.

Outfit your youngsters with hats and sunglasses. Their corneas are clearer and more sensitive than those of adults.

Never look directly into the sun or at reflections of the sun off the water as this can cause damage to the retina.

Here’s looking at you!!

If thine eyes have seen the glory of spring and you wish to share the experience, e-mail Darline Turner-Lee