Sore Eyes from Hawaiian Vog

AI Overview

In Hawaii, vog, or volcanic smog, can trigger or worsen allergies, causing symptoms like eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, and even asthma attacks, especially in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Here's a more detailed explanation of how vog affects allergies:

What is Vog?

Vog is a hazy mixture formed when sulfur dioxide gas and other fine particulate matter from an active volcano interact with oxygen and moisture in the air.
How does it affect allergies?

The combination of volcanic emissions and local flora can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
Symptoms:
Eye, nose, throat, and/or skin irritation

Coughing and/or phlegm

Chest tightness and/or shortness of breath

Headache

Increased susceptibility to respiratory ailments

Fatigue and/or dizziness

Nausea

Runny nose

Congestion

Sneezing

Post-nasal drainage

Scratchy sore throat

Asthma episodes
Who is at risk?

Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like environmental allergies, emphysema, and asthma are more susceptible to the effects of vog.
What to do?
Stay indoors: When vog levels are high, try to stay indoors as much as possible.

Monitor air quality: Keep an eye on weather reports and air quality alerts.

Protect yourself: Wear a mask with an exhalation valve, especially if you have to go outside.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help loosen congestion.

Limit strenuous activities: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities when vog levels are high.

Consult a doctor: If you have persistent symptoms or are concerned about your health, seek medical advice.

To alleviate allergy eye symptoms caused by Hawaiian Vog, try using artificial tears, cold compresses, and over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops, while avoiding rubbing your eyes and contact lenses, and consider consulting an eye doctor if symptoms persist. For faster remediation, please come in for an evaluation for medications (for allergies, dry & red eyes, inflammations, & infections) with fastest & healthy relief.

Here's a more detailed approach:

1. Immediate Relief:

Artificial Tears: Use lubricating eye drops to soothe and rinse away irritants.
Cold Compresses: Apply a cool, damp cloth to your eyes to reduce swelling and itching.
Avoid Rubbing: Resist the urge to rub your eyes, as this can worsen irritation and inflammation.

Wash Your Face: Wash your face after being exposed to vog to remove any allergens.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus and reduce congestion.
Avoid Contact Lenses: If possible, switch to glasses to reduce irritation.

2. Over-the-Counter Treatments:

Antihistamine Eye Drops: These can help relieve itching, redness, and watering.

Decongestant Eye Drops: These can help reduce redness, but use them sparingly and for short periods, as they can cause rebound effects.
Oral Antihistamines: If you have other allergy symptoms, oral antihistamines can help.

3. Long-Term Strategies:

Consult an Eye Doctor: If symptoms are severe or don't improve with over-the-counter treatments, seek professional advice.

Identify and Avoid Allergens: If you know what triggers your allergies, try to avoid them as much as possible.
Keep Your Home Clean: Regularly clean your home, especially bedding and carpets, to reduce allergen exposure.
Consider Immunotherapy: For persistent allergies, your doctor may recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy) to help your body build tolerance to allergens.
Manage Congestion: Over-the-counter nasal sprays can help reduce upper respiratory symptoms for some people.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of liquids to help loosen congestion. Do not smoke: Also, avoid secondhand smoke.

Common Eye Irritations

Allergies from Hawaiian Vog

Edwin Y. Endo, OD Optometrists, Eye Doctors Of Honolulu

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