I have hay fever / pollen allergies. Should I stop wearing lenses?

Allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, watery, swollen eyes during pollen season) makes lens wear uncomfortable but not impossible.

Strategy in order of impact:

1. Switch to daily disposables during pollen season. Fresh lens means no overnight allergen build-up. This single change resolves about 60% of cases.
2. Oral antihistamines (loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine) — safe with any lens.
3. Lens-safe allergy drops (preservative-free unidoses) — usable with lenses in.
4. Cold compress on closed eyes — 5-minute sessions, very effective for symptomatic relief.
5. Avoid drying environments: car aircon, sleeping near open windows.

If symptoms remain disabling despite all of the above, take a 2–3 week lens break during peak season and return to lenses when pollen counts drop.