03/31/2026
It’s “sort of” warming up which means the outdoor allergy season is starting. At this time of the year it will start with tree pollens and move into grasses in June and July. August and September will see Ragweed pollen spiking, and it’s not until we have few good freezes that the outdoor seasonal allergies really end. That’s the bad news for allergy sufferers. The good news is that there are several solutions for you!
To help combat these allergy symptoms, you can get an over the counter eye drop called Pataday, made by Alcon. This eye drop comes in 3 versions which will help bring some relief to those itchy eyes. My recommendation is to use the Original Prescription Strength (0.2% solution red box) and take the drop each morning, before you start your day. This provides the best coverage and symptom reduction during your waking hours. If symptoms return later in the day, when using the Original Prescription Strength (0.2% solution), it’s ok to occasionally take a second drop.
For patients who wear contact lenses, there are things that can be done to improve lens comfort and quality of vision also. Single use “daily” contact lenses may improve allergy symptoms as well as ensuring proper lens hygiene for longer replacement cycle lenses. Don’t let allergies end your contact lens wear! Reach out to us for tips and tricks to navigate the allergy season in your contact lenses.
If you try Pataday and still have symptoms after a few days, give the office a call and let Dr. Warren or Dr. Steen take a look at your situation and come up with a customized game plan to restore your eye comfort and vision.
