Health / Care The Eyes Have It Local experts share how to look your best this summer — and enjoy your best eyesight too. BY DON BUTLER Photo courtesy of Eye Care Specialists W ith summer fast approaching, Milwaukeeans are headed outside to enjoy the summer in style. But, says local experts, before you hop on that bike, gear up the garden or head for the lake, take the necessary precautions to protect your vision. Red, irritated eyes are common throughout the summer months, particularly for people prone to allergies. “For some people, certain particles in the air — like pollen, animal hairs, dust, or molds — cause specific eye cells to release allergy activators, such as histamine, that lead to irritation,” says Eye Care Specialists’ Daniel Paskowitz, MD, PhD. “Eye allergy symptoms include watery MKE Lifestyle | May 2021 Daniel Paskowitz, MD, PhD, Eye Care Specialists or itchy eyes, mucus buildup, difficulty focusing, and discomfort wearing contact lenses. People with eye allergies often have a history of hay fever or other allergies.” Treatment needs depends on symptom severity, he continues. “The easiest remedy is to simply lessen contact with any instigators. If you’re gardening, wear gloves and keep your hands away from your eyes. If you’re allergic to animals, don’t touch your eyes after petting them — or, better yet, avoid any contact.” If you do suffer symptoms, cold compresses or over-the-counter mild antihistamine drops can reduce itching and puffiness, Paskowitz says. “If these measures aren’t enough, see an eye care specialist who can evaluate your candidacy for more potent prescription eye drops and medications.” And while the summer months are a heyday for sun-starved Wisconsinites, the prolonged exposure to its rays presents added opportunity for serious eye damage. continued on page 34 32
MKE Lifestyle May 2021: Page 32
