Seasonal allergies can really suck the fun out of a summer vacation or frolic in the park. No one likes having to spend their days indoors because of allergy symptoms, or worse, having to leave the party because your nose won’t stop running. Luckily, there are ways to combat itchy eyes without resorting to drastic measures or emergency care. Here are some simple steps you can take to still enjoy the outdoors in spite of the allergy blues.

• Wear Glasses
  You can prevent pollen or other allergens from getting in your eyes by wearing some simple protective shades or eyeglasses. If you wear contacts, more stuff might accumulate on the surface of your lenses, so opt for glasses instead when you’re out and about. Wraparound sunglasses are also great for preventing itchy eyes — and you’ll look cool, too.
• Over-the-Counter Medications
  Every allergy sufferer is familiar with antihistamines and eye drops that can help minimize symptoms. Stock up and keep medications with you at home or on the car for on-the-go relief.
• Prescription Medications
  If the over-the-counter stuff doesn’t cut it, consider prescription strength medication. Even if you can’t get an appointment with your primary care doctor, try visiting an urgent care clinic to see about prescription allergy medications to help relieve itchy eyes, sore throats, or other allergy symptoms.
• Avoidance
  You can still get a lot of outdoor summer time in without exposing yourself to too much pollen. Allergens tend to be most concentrated in the early morning and evening, so stay inside at those hours while maximizing the mid-day sun to get in your dose of sunny Vitamin D. Additionally, try to pinpoint the cause of your allergens — is it hay or pollen? Dust or pet dander? When you know what triggers your symptoms, you can take better steps to avoid it.

You can still enjoy summer’s bounty without the pain of red, itchy eyes. Remember not to rub — that tends to only make things worse! If allergies are a persistent problem year round, you may want to ask a doctor about allergy tests to see if there’s something specific in your environment that might be causing the issue.