As winter fades and spring approaches, many people look forward to warmer temperatures and blooming flowers. However, for those who suffer from seasonal allergies, this time of year can also bring uncomfortable symptoms—including itchy, watery, and irritated eyes. Understanding how allergies affect eye health and learning how to manage symptoms effectively can help you enjoy the season with clearer, more comfortable vision.

How Seasonal Allergies Affect Your Eyes

Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when allergens like pollen, dust, or mold trigger an immune response. Your body releases histamines, which cause inflammation, leading to common symptoms such as:

• Itchy, irritated eyes

• Redness and swelling

• Watery or teary eyes

• Sensitivity to light

• A gritty or burning sensation

These symptoms can make daily tasks more difficult, especially for contact lens wearers, students, and those who spend long hours outdoors.

Tips to Reduce Eye Allergy Symptoms

Managing seasonal allergies doesn’t have to mean avoiding the outdoors altogether. Here are some practical ways to protect your eyes and find relief:

1. Minimize Exposure to Allergens

• Check the pollen count before heading outside—peak times are early mornings and windy days.

• Wear wraparound sunglasses to shield your eyes from pollen and dust.

• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and use air purifiers indoors.

2. Practice Good Eye Hygiene

• Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation.

• Wash your hands frequently to prevent transferring allergens to your face.

• Use a cool compress over your eyes to soothe redness and swelling.

3. Use Allergy-Friendly Eye Drops

• Artificial tears can help flush out allergens and keep your eyes hydrated.

• Antihistamine eye drops can reduce itchiness and inflammation.

• If you wear contact lenses, switch to daily disposables or clean your lenses thoroughly to prevent allergen buildup.

4. Consider Allergy Medications

• Oral antihistamines can help control allergy symptoms but may cause dry eyes—pair them with lubricating eye drops if needed.
• Nasal sprays can reduce congestion and indirectly relieve eye symptoms caused by sinus pressure.

5. Schedule an Eye Exam

• If your allergy symptoms persist or interfere with daily life, an eye exam can help rule out other conditions like dry eye syndrome or eye infections that may have similar symptoms.

• Your optometrist can recommend prescription treatments for more severe cases of allergic conjunctivitis.