For many people, allergies contribute to a variety of uncomfortable daily symptoms related to their eyes, which makes it very difficult for those who wear contact lenses. Puffiness, dryness, itchiness, or even pink eye infections can result from a combination of contact lenses and allergies. LASIK eye specialists in Los Angeles say that pollen and dander can attach themselves to the lens and cause more irritation in the eye than normal. This is why so many people with allergies decide to visit a LASIK eye center like the Excel Laser Vision Institute and undergo the vision correction procedure. With LASIK, many patients are no longer dependent on their contact lenses or glasses, which makes allergy-related eye conditions much more manageable.
Not many people think about the advantages of laser eye surgery for their allergy conditions. However, it can have a monumental impact to be free of eye-irritating contacts. So, once you find the best LASIK surgeons in Los Angeles like Doctor Ferzaad Moosa, you can relax knowing that your contact-wearing days will soon be over.
With certain particulates like dust, pollen, and dander, people can have varying degrees of allergic reactions. From an annoying itch to painful infections, allergies can truly affect a person’s day-to-day life. Some of the most common eye-related symptoms include red eyes, watery eyes, dry eyes, itchy eyes, and swelling.
Fortunately, allergies are quite common and there are quite a few remedies that have been created. Many people with allergies will carry around special eye drops or allergy medication that can help ease some of these discomforts. So, if you suffer from any of these allergy-related eye symptoms, you are not alone.
LASIK experts in Los Angeles say that while eye conditions related to allergies are usually temporary and not very serious, contact lenses can increase your risk of infection and thus make symptoms more painful. Because allergens will sometimes stick to contact lenses, this also means that you are more likely to have frequent, long-lasting allergy attacks in a day. Many people who wear contacts and have seasonal allergies find that they need to clean their contacts after spending a lot of time outside.
Since allergies are so common, they will not affect your ability to qualify as a LASIK patient in Los Angeles. Many people with allergy-related eye conditions are still viable candidates for laser eye surgery, provided that their eye health and history is acceptable. This may be a bit shocking to some people, considering that severe dry eye symptoms can often disqualify patients for LASIK procedures. When dry eye symptoms are a result of allergies, doctors can successfully treat and manage symptoms to perform a safe and effective laser eye surgery.
LASIK is not only possible for people with allergies, but it is actively recommended for those who also wear contacts. If you can achieve clear vision without eye-irritating lenses, then you will significantly improve your seasonal allergy symptoms. Once you perform an eye examination with a LASIK specialist in Los Angeles, they will likely recommend that you come for your procedure when allergy season has passed and your eyes have had enough time to heal and adjust back to their normal routine. While allergies are not a disqualifier, there are some other factors that can affect your LASIK candidacy. Here are some of them:
- Prescription
- Age
- Cornea size and shape
- Eye health
If you are worried that your allergies will make LASIK worse, here are some statistics to ease your mind. According to the results of a study published in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, LASIK side effects do not significantly impact those with allergies more than those without allergies. The laser technology used at LASIK clinics such as Excel Laser Vision Institute in Los Angeles is advanced and precise enough to fix vision issues without producing unmanageable side effects. In fact, most people that receive LASIK eye surgery find that their healing process is very fast, with little to inconvenience them.
Once you have received your LASIK eye surgery and do not have to wear your contacts anymore, your quality of life will greatly improve. People that love an active lifestyle are especially grateful to LASIK for allowing them to spend more time outside without worrying about allergens sticking to their contact lenses. So, in order to fully enjoy your new eyesight after LASIK, you need to be gentle with your eyes. Here are some tips for treating your eyes right after your laser eye surgery:
Follow Post-Operative Instructions
Adhere diligently to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to facilitate optimal healing and lessen the risk of complications. This may include using prescribed eye drops, wearing protective eyewear, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled.
Use Prescribed Eye Drops
Incorporate prescribed eye drops into your daily routine to alleviate dryness, irritation, and inflammation associated with LASIK surgery and seasonal allergies. Lubricating drops can provide soothing relief, promote tear production, and maintain ocular moisture, fostering a conducive environment for healing.
Manage Allergy Symptoms
Consult your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive plan for managing seasonal allergies. This may involve taking antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or decongestants to alleviate sneezing, congestion, and itching that can exacerbate eye discomfort and compromise healing post-LASIK.
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
Resist the admittedly intense urge to rub or touch your eyes, as this can introduce bacteria, increase inflammation, and disrupt the corneal flap created during LASIK surgery. Instead, gently rinse your eyes with saline solution or use a clean, damp cloth to alleviate itching or discomfort caused by seasonal allergies.
Protect Your Eyes from Allergens
Minimize exposure to allergens by wearing wraparound sunglasses or protective eyewear outdoors, particularly during peak pollen seasons. Keep windows closed, use air purifiers, and frequently clean household surfaces to reduce allergen accumulation and minimize eye irritation.
Maintain Hygiene Practices
Practice good hygiene to prevent infection and promote healing post-LASIK surgery. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or administering eye drops, avoid sharing towels or cosmetics, and adhere to the recommended hygiene protocols outlined by your healthcare provider.
Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet
Stay hydrated by consuming plenty of water and consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and antioxidants to support ocular health and immune function. A well-balanced diet can help alleviate inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and promote optimal healing post-LASIK.
Limit Exposure to Irritants
Minimize exposure to environmental irritants such as smoke, dust, and pollutants, which can exacerbate eye irritation and compromise healing post-LASIK surgery. Use air filters, avoid smoking or secondhand smoke, and maintain a clean, allergen-free environment to optimize ocular comfort and recovery.
Monitor Symptoms and Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Monitor your symptoms very closely and seek prompt medical attention if you experience persistent pain, redness, swelling, or changes in vision post-LASIK surgery. Early intervention can assist with preventing complications and ensure optimal outcomes, particularly for individuals managing seasonal allergies concurrently.
Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider
Maintain open communication with your Los Angeles healthcare provider throughout the postoperative period, especially if you have concerns or experience unusual symptoms related to seasonal allergies or LASIK surgery. Your provider can offer personalized recommendations and adjustments to your treatment plan to promote optimal eye health and recovery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, effectively managing your eyes post-LASIK surgery amidst seasonal allergies requires a proactive approach that prioritizes adherence to post-operative instructions, management of allergy symptoms, protection from allergens, and maintaining good hygiene practices. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine and seeking timely medical attention when needed, you can navigate the challenges of seasonal allergies while optimizing your ocular health and visual outcomes post-LASIK surgery. For personalized advice and expert care, consult with Excel Laser Vision Institute and Doctor Moosa, who specialize in LASIK surgery and can provide tailored recommendations for your specific needs.
