Summer Is Here: Top Tips to Help Keep My Eyes From Flaring

I always find it challenging to maintain good eye health. And 'touch wood' I'm doing a great job staving off the attack I am currently under. The weather is hot and stuffy here in the UK and this is the perfect storm for people like me who suffer from eczema, hay fever, and asthma. Listed below are some of the practices that I have found most helpful.

How can you keep my eczema eye flares at bay?

• Frequent hand washing: Washing my hands frequently is absolutely key! Especially before touching my eyes or face. This simple practice can help prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses that can cause eye infections.
• Avoid touching your eyes: I try hard not to rub or touch my eyes with dirty hands. Doing so can introduce harmful pathogens into my eyes and potentially lead to infections. If I fail to do this I will look like a zombie with red eyes but impeccable manners.
• Use clean towels: I regularly change and wash my towels, pillowcases, and other linens that come in contact with my face to prevent the spread of germs that can cause eye infections. This piece of advice was given to me by my doctor.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Don't be afraid to be like a spoilt brat when it comes to sharing things. I refrain from sharing items like towels or eye drops with others to minimize the risk of spreading germs that can cause eye infections.
• Stay away from irritants: Be mindful of potential irritants such as chlorine from swimming pools or allergens like pollen. I try, where possible, to rinse my eyes thoroughly with clean water after exposure to these substances to reduce the risk of irritation and infection.

What else do can you do?

• Protecting your eyes from UV rays: Wear sunglasses!!! I wear my shades permanently. I'm like Stevie Wonder in that respect (minus his musical talent). It does make me a tad self-conscious but I have to look at the bigger picture. My shades have UV protection to shield my eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of eye infections and other eye conditions.
• Drink lots of fluids: Drinking an adequate amount of water is essential for maintaining overall eye health. Proper hydration helps me prevent my eyes from becoming dry, which can make your eyes more susceptible to infections.
• Maintain a healthy diet: I'm always banging on about diet and I always will. I think it's one of the most important weapons that us eczema sufferers have in fighting this condition. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients, particularly those beneficial for eye health like Vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids, will help support my immune system and protect my eyes from infections.
• Get the right help: If anyone experiences symptoms of an eye infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or discomfort, seek medical attention from an eye care professional promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the infection from worsening and help preserve your eye health.

If I follow these steps, incorporating good eye hygiene practices into my daily routine, I can reduce the risk of eye infections and enjoy a healthy and vibrant summer season. Happy summer people!!!