As soon as warm weather pollens disperse into the air, people with pollen sensitivities begin to experience the annual misery of itchy, watery eyes.

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis affects up to 25 percent of the population. The eyes become itchy, red, and produce copious tears as soon as the spring/summer pollen season begins, usually from exposure to grass and tree pollen.

Although taking an oral antihistamine medication will help relieve the symptoms of allergies, soothing eye drops provide instant relief that’s targeted to the eyes.

Visine® Allergy and Visine® Advance Allergy provide fast, effective relief for allergy symptoms affecting the eyes. Visine® Allergy contains a decongestant to address the redness and itching and zinc sulfate, a mild astringent, to clear mucus from the surface of the eye. This formulation is particularly helpful for people experiencing build-up of mucus—a common symptom of allergies that affect the eyes.

Visine® Advance Allergy combines a decongestant with an antihistamine to block histamine receptors in the eye. This quickly provides relief from the itching, tearing and redness of the eyes caused by airborne allergens.

Both Visine® formulations may be found at London Drugs. Please speak to the pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

You should contact your doctor if you experience eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness or irritation of the eye or if the condition worsens or persists for more than 72 hours.

Do not use any eye care formulation containing a decongestant if you have glaucoma or a serious eye disease. Please consult a doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using these products. Since it contains an antihistamine, Visine® Advance Allergy should not be used by people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or difficulty with urination. Both formulations may be used for children of six years and older.