Springtime has arrived, bringing with it the sweet scent of blooming flowers, bright sunshine, and, for many of us, the dreaded tip-off of seasonal allergies.
If you’re anything like the typical spring sports fan, you may already have your eyes on that bracket for the big March sportsball tournament. Unfortunately, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and congestion won’t help you keep your eyes on the ball. And with the annual pollen count soaring, it’s natural to have questions about how allergies might affect your LASIK procedure.
Instead of putting your dreams of clear vision on hold, we’ve drawn up the perfect game plan for a slam-dunk LASIK experience during allergy season. That way, you can spend less time chasing after glasses and contact lenses and more time enjoying the madness of March.
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Whether you’re daydreaming about hitting half-court buzzer-beaters or planning on planting full-quart perennials, there’s never been a better time to Spring for LASIK!
Common Concerns About LASIK and Seasonal Allergies
Springtime in Oklahoma is equal parts sunny skies, blooming flowers, and annoying allergens. Understandably, many prospective LASIK patients wonder if their allergies might introduce complications to a typically worry-free LASIK experience. The reality is that the LASIK process can actually provide relief from some of the most common allergy symptoms.
Should You Really Have LASIK in OKC in the Spring?
Many LASIK patients worry that allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and swelling can interfere with LASIK recovery. But, with proper preparation and guidance from your nJoy Vision care team, navigating around allergies during your LASIK journey is possible.
Here are three reasons why springtime can be the best time for LASIK.
- While post-winter enthusiasm fuels our return to outdoor fun, the looming summer hustle makes early spring the perfect window to “spring for LASIK.”
- We recommend that contact lens wearers discontinue wearing contacts for up to two weeks before LASIK. Not only can this offer a welcome break from allergy discomfort and irritation leading up to the procedure, but it also helps ensure a smoother recovery.
- Using over-the-counter and prescription eye drops after LASIK can offer extended relief from typical eye allergy symptoms.
How Allergies Can Affect Your Eyes (and Why LASIK Helps)
Allergies frequently trigger itchy, red, and watery eyes, sometimes making it nearly impossible to wear contact lenses comfortably. Pollen, dust, and other airborne irritants can cling to lenses, compounding the discomfort and dryness caused by high allergen counts. Additionally, constantly handling contact lenses can further aggravate sensitive, allergy-prone eyes.
LASIK offers a more permanent solution by eliminating the daily lens routine, allowing your eyes to breathe without constant irritation. Many LASIK patients report reduced dryness, greater comfort, and the freedom to fully enjoy the season without lens-induced allergy flare-ups.
Here are four common allergy symptoms and how LASIK can provide relief or even remedy those issues:
- Itchy Eyes: Allergens often stick to contact lenses, intensifying itchiness. By eliminating the need for contact lenses, LASIK reduces direct exposure to irritants, lessening the urge to rub your eyes.
- Dryness: Frequent contact lens wear can aggravate dryness, especially during allergy season. LASIK frees you from lenses that may exacerbate dryness, ultimately helping your eyes feel more comfortable.
- Redness and Irritation: Constantly rubbing or adjusting contact lenses can introduce allergens and irritants directly to your eyes and contacts. With LASIK, you won’t have to handle lenses, giving sensitive, allergy-prone eyes much-needed relief.
- Excess Tearing: Allergies can trigger excessive tearing that can blur vision for contact lens wearers. LASIK simplifies your eye care routine and reduces the cycle of tear production and lens irritation.
Tips for Navigating Your Spring LASIK Surgery
Just like a coach drawing up a game-winning play during a timeout, here are five smart moves that’ll help you triumph over the spring allergy season and your LASIK procedure like a pro.
- Start Allergy Medications Early
Consult your eye care provider or a physician to determine which allergy treatments are right for you. Starting them before surgery can significantly reduce inflammation and itching. By preventing a build-up of symptoms, you’ll start off on the right foot, ready to face any defensive “blocks” spring might throw your way. - Use Preservative-Free Artificial Tears
These over-the-counter drops help keep your eyes lubricated while also flushing away allergens that can accumulate. They’re often recommended during LASIK recovery regardless of season, but they become an all-star player when spring allergies threaten dryness and irritation. - Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
Easier said than done, especially when itching strikes. Rubbing your eyes can lead to corneal abrasions or infections, and it’s something to strictly avoid after LASIK. Think of it as a no-contact rule to protect your healing eyes and ensure the best possible outcome. - Follow nJoy’s LASIK Post-Op Protocol
LASIK recovery is generally a smooth and swift process, but sticking to the post-op playbook is the best way to win the recovery game. This includes the use of prescription and OTC lubricating eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending all follow-up appointments. - Consider Allergy Testing for Targeted Treatment
If your eye allergy symptoms are significant or persistent even after LASIK, it might be worth seeing an allergist or immunologist. A targeted treatment plan, like allergy immunotherapy, could provide longer-term relief so you can get off the bench and enjoy the game.
Long-Term Benefits of LASIK to Reduce Allergy-Related Discomfort
As you pivot toward clearer vision this spring, it helps to understand why seasonal allergies are a formidable opponent and how LASIK can keep you in the game with year-round relief.
Seasonal allergies often lead to itchy, watery, or red eyes, making contact lenses feel even more uncomfortable or downright unbearable. Pollen and other irritants can stick to the lenses, causing additional dryness or infection risks. This can result in frequent lens touching, increased irritation, and a constant cycle of discomfort.
Without the added friction of lenses or the constant need for eyewear adjustments, LASIK patients often report fewer eye-related allergy problems. By removing the primary source of irritation—contact lenses—your eyes can better handle the natural ebb and flow of seasonal allergens. This translates to more consistent comfort and a clearer view, no matter the time of year.
Score Big When You Spring for LASIK
With allergy season getting underway, springtime is the perfect time to reach for your vision goals – all while sidestepping the usual seasonal irritations. From reducing contact lens discomfort to providing year-round relief for itchy, watery eyes, LASIK can help you stay focused on what matters most during the Madness of March and beyond.
If you’re ready to score big with fresh savings and a fresh perspective, now’s the time to make a fast break to nJoy Vision!
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