How Spring Allergies Impact Your Eyes

As flowers bloom and temperatures rise, allergens in the air increase as well. Spring is well-known for causing eye allergies, primarily due to pollen, dust, and other environmental irritants. Many individuals suffer from itching, redness, tearing, and swelling—common signs of allergic conjunctivitis. If you often rub your eyes or feel discomfort, it’s important to take steps to protect your vision.

Good news: relief is closer than you think. By making simple lifestyle changes and exploring effective treatments, you can significantly improve allergy-related eye issues. Booking an eye exam with SightMD will help you find the best strategies for maintaining your eye health this season.

How Spring Allergies Affect Your Eyes

What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis happens when allergens, such as pollen and pet dander, irritate the conjunctiva, the delicate membrane that covers your eyes. Unlike bacterial or viral infections, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious, but it can be very uncomfortable. Common symptoms include excessive tearing, a burning sensation, and swollen eyelids.

Eye Allergies vs. Eye Infections

It’s essential to distinguish between eye allergies and infections. Both can cause redness and irritation. However, allergies usually affect both eyes. They often come with sneezing or a stuffy nose. In contrast, infections may cause discharge, pain, or light sensitivity, which necessitates medical attention.

Pollen Exposure and Dry Eye Symptoms

If you have dry eye syndrome, spring allergies can worsen your condition. Pollen can irritate the surface of your eyes, increasing dryness and causing a gritty feeling and discomfort. To alleviate these symptoms, consider using artificial tears and limit outdoor activities during peak pollen times.

Best Ways to Protect Your Eyes During Allergy Season

1. Wear Wraparound Sunglasses – These help block airborne allergens and protect your eyes from pollen exposure.
2. Use Antihistamine Eye Drops and Artificial Tears – These can help relieve itching, redness, and irritation.
3. Wash Your Hands and Face Frequently – Removing allergens from your skin and eyelashes prevents further irritation.
4. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes – Rubbing can introduce more allergens and worsen inflammation.

Medications & Treatments for Allergy-Related Eye Issues

OTC vs. Prescription Allergy Eye Drops

For mild symptoms, over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine eye drops provide quick relief. However, if symptoms persist, prescription-strength medications may be necessary. Mast cell stabilizers and steroid drops can provide long-term relief when OTC options aren’t enough.

When to Consider Immunotherapy

For individuals with severe allergies, immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) may help desensitize the immune system over time. This treatment reduces the body’s overreaction to allergens, leading to fewer symptoms during allergy season.

Home Remedies & Lifestyle Adjustments

Using indoor air purifiers, keeping windows closed, and running a humidifier can help reduce allergen exposure at home. Cold compresses can also soothe swollen eyelids and provide temporary relief.

Spring Allergies & Contact Lenses: What You Need to Know

How Allergens Affect Contact Lens Wearers

Pollen and other allergens can stick to contact lenses, trapping irritants against the eye and worsening symptoms. This can lead to discomfort, redness, and an increased risk of infection.

Best Contact Lens Options for Allergy Sufferers

Daily disposable lenses are typically the ideal option during allergy season. Unlike monthly lenses, daily lenses reduce allergen accumulation and offer a fresh, clean surface every day. If you can’t use daily lenses, cleaning your lenses with a hydrogen peroxide solution can help.

Proper Contact Lens Hygiene During Allergy Season

• Wash hands before handling lenses
• Avoid wearing lenses during peak pollen times
• Consider switching to glasses on high-pollen days

When to See an Eye Doctor

While mild allergies can be managed with home remedies and OTC treatments, certain symptoms require professional attention. If you experience severe redness, blurred vision, pain, or persistent discomfort, it’s time to see an eye doctor. An exam at SightMD can help diagnose underlying conditions and provide tailored treatment options for long-term relief.

Take Action Against Spring Allergies

Don’t let spring allergies affect your vision. There are various ways to protect your eyes this season, from protective eyewear to prescription treatments. If you have allergy-related eye problems, make an appointment with SightMD today. Get expert care and personalized solutions.