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Friday, October, 10, 2008

Question
Danni Clark
05/18/08

Swollen eyes from a hanging plant, How do I treat?

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Answers (2)
Kathleen MacNaughton
Kathleen MacNaughton
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Kathleen MacNaughton is pretty miserable just now with lots of allergy symptoms despite antihistamines

Kathleen MacNaughton, RN, is a licensed registered nurse and consumer...

Monday, May 19, 2008

Hi Danni,

 

You don't say if you have allergies or if you know for sure that you're allergic to that plant, but let's assume that we know you are. In that case, taking an antihistamine by mouth may help, such as Claritin or Zyrtec, both of which are available over the counter. Even better might be an antihistamine eye drop such as Alaway, which will treat the inflammation right where it's occurring -- in your eyes.

 

I've also found that applying an ice compress intermittently to your eyes can provide a lot of comfort, though it won't actually treat the allergies. I like to wrap a couple of ice cubes in a damp washcloth and lay down with the cloth over my eyes. Do remove it every few minutes though, or whenever it feels uncomfortably closed.

 

Aside from that, most allergic reactions resolve over time. How long can vary. And, of course, you can always call your doctor for more personalized advice.


To your health,

Kathi

Sunny
Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Change the plant.  Apparently you're allergic.  There are natural and over the counter eye drops which will help soothe your eyes as will short periods of time using cold compresses (just a washcloth in cold water).  Make sure it's clean and if you're going to re-apply it to your eyes get another clean one so you don't spread or continue any contamination issues.

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