ATTENTION THOSE SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS AN INVISIBLE DANGER AWAITS YOUR EYES

ATTENTION THOSE SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS AN INVISIBLE DANGER AWAITS YOUR EYES

Ophthalmologist Dr. Nükhet Zaim, emphasizing the importance of not neglecting eye health during the spring months, stated, "With the revival of nature in the spring, there is a significant increase in pollen levels. Tree, grass, and flower pollens are easily spread by the wind and come into contact with the eyes. Complaints are more common, especially in people who spend long periods outdoors."

Dr. Zaim provided detailed explanations about eye allergies, which increase during the spring months. She explained that eye allergies are a reaction that develops when our immune system perceives substances that are actually harmless, such as pollen, house dust, and animal dander, as a threat. "When these substances come into contact with the eye surface, chemicals like histamine are released, causing symptoms such as redness, itching, and watering. This reaction can develop more quickly and severely, especially in people with allergic predispositions," she added.

Ophthalmologist Dr. Dr. Zaim stated, "With the revival of nature in the spring months, there is a significant increase in pollen levels. Tree, grass, and flower pollens are easily spread by the wind and come into contact with the eyes. Complaints are more common, especially in people who spend long periods of time outdoors. In addition, climate change and air pollution can also increase the severity of allergic reactions."

Underlining that patients most often present with complaints of intense itching in the eyes, Dr. Zaim continued, "Redness, watering, burning sensation, and stinging are also frequently observed. In some cases, light sensitivity may develop, and slight swelling of the eyelids may occur. Symptoms may be more pronounced, especially in the morning hours, and may increase throughout the day depending on allergen exposure."

Dr. Zaim noted that differentiating between allergic conjunctivitis and infections is quite important. Dr. Zaim stated, "In allergic conditions, the most prominent complaint is itching, and usually both eyes are affected. The discharge is mostly clear and watery. In cases caused by infection, a thick, yellow-green discharge, crusting, and sometimes the eyelids sticking together are observed. Furthermore, infections often start in one eye and spread to the other."

Touching upon the triggering factors, Dr. Zaim said, "Factors such as pollen, dust, and air pollution cause irritation on the eye surface and trigger the immune system, creating inflammation. As a result, redness, itching, and watering occur in the eyes. Also, the use of air conditioning, dry air, and prolonged screen time can dry out the eye surface and increase allergic complaints."

Dr. Zaim Dr. Nükhet Zaim stated that eye allergies are more common in individuals with allergic predispositions, especially those with conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and eczema, adding, "In addition, the risk is higher in individuals with a family history of allergies. Allergic conjunctivitis is also quite common in children and young adults."

Discussing treatment options, Dr. Zaim explained, "Treatment is planned according to the patient's complaints and the severity of the allergy. Antiallergic eye drops and antihistamine medications are effective in controlling symptoms. Artificial tear drops help remove allergens by cleaning the eye surface. In more severe cases, short-term, cortisone-containing drops may be used under the supervision of a doctor."

ATTENTION THOSE SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS AN INVISIBLE DANGER AWAITS YOUR EYES