The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and the leaves are sprouting … but your eyes are red and itchy! You eagerly await spring’s beautiful weather after a long, cold winter, only to be met with the frustration of allergy season. During this time of the year, the trees, grass, and weeds release pollen into the air. Most will enjoy the beautiful weather, while some of us suffer with irritated, watery eyes!
Why do seasonal allergies cause red eyes?
When your eyes come into contact with an allergen (such as pollen), your immune system releases histamines, causing your eyes to have a reaction! Seasonal allergies most often result in a condition called allergic conjunctivitis. The conjunctiva is the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. When an allergen irritates this area, it becomes inflamed, resulting in red, itchy, and watery eyes.
What are the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis?
If you have a reaction to an allergen, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Itchy eyes
- Red eyes
- Watery eyes
- Blurry vision
- Tired or fatigued eyes
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Swollen or puffy eyelids
- Mucous discharge
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Gritty eyes or the feeling of a foreign body in the eye
These are some common symptoms. Any changes in your normal day-to-day routine should be discussed with your local optometrist. A thorough eye exam will reveal the cause and how it can be treated.
How can I get relief from seasonal eye allergies?
We understand that finding relief from eye allergies isn’t always easy. While eliminating allergens entirely may be difficult, there are several ways to reduce symptoms and find relief:
- Over the counter allergy eye drops: provides quick relief from itchiness and redness
- Prescription eye drops: stronger options available to be prescribed by your local optometrist for more severe symptoms
- Oral allergy medication: antihistamines can help alleviate eye symptoms, especially in combination with eye drops
- Apply a cold compress: this can help reduce the swelling and soothe irritation
- Avoid rubbing eyes: rubbing can worsen symptoms and cause more inflammation
- Wear sunglasses: assists in shielding your eyes from allergens like pollen and dust
Book your eye exam at inFocus Vision Care
It’s important to visit your eye care provider to get the proper relief from your itchy eyes, irritated eyes! Some symptoms may be mistaken for other eye conditions like bacterial or viral conjunctivitis. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment plan.
For more information, concerns or inquiries or to book your next eye exam, get in touch with inFocus Vision Care. It all begins with you taking care of your eyes!
