Spring Eye Allergy Season has Already Begun

Spring eye allergy season has already begun in many parts of the country. Many people may be mistaking allergy-related symptoms for other eye conditions that require different treatment, here are some tips.

Tips to Conquer Spring Eye Allergies

As pollen exposure increases during the spring months, patients often experience itchy eyes, redness, tearing, eyelid swelling, light sensitivity, and a gritty or irritated sensation. While these symptoms are commonly linked to seasonal allergies, they can also overlap with dry eye disease, blepharitis, and other ocular surface conditions.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, eye allergies, also called allergic conjunctivitis, are pretty standard. They occur when the eyes react to something that irritates them (called an allergen). The eyes produce a substance called histamine to fight off the allergen. As a result, the eyelids and conjunctiva become red, swollen, and itchy. The eyes can tear and burn. Unlike other kinds of conjunctivitis, eye allergies do not spread from person to person.

Patients with Spring eye allergies commonly have nasal allergies, an itchy, stuffy nose, and sneezing. It is usually a temporary condition associated with seasonal allergies.

You can also get eye allergies from pet dander, dust, pollen, smoke, perfumes, or even foods. If you cannot avoid the cause, your allergies can be more severe. You can have significant burning and itching and even sensitivity to light.

“This time of year, many patients come in after trying several over-the-counter drops without much relief,” said Dr. Aykanush Sungulyan, OD, founder of RevitalEyes Optometry. “In many cases, the problem is not allergies alone. We often see a combination of allergy-related inflammation and underlying dry eye, and the right treatment depends on identifying what is actually causing the symptoms.”

That distinction matters because treating the wrong condition can delay relief and sometimes worsen discomfort. Contact lens wearers may be especially vulnerable during allergy season, as lenses can trap allergens against the eye’s surface and make symptoms more noticeable.

What Are the Symptoms of Eye Allergies? The most common eye allergy symptoms include:

• red, swollen, or itchy eyes
• burning or tearing of the eyes
• sensitivity to light

For mild symptoms, preservative-free artificial tears may help rinse allergens from the eyes and provide temporary relief. Reducing outdoor exposure during high-pollen periods, washing the face and eyelids after spending time outside, and avoiding eye rubbing may also help minimize irritation.

Spring Eye Allergy Management

• Avoid triggers by making changes to your home and your routine.
• Keep windows closed during high pollen periods; use air conditioning in your home and car.
• Wear glasses or sunglasses when outdoors to keep pollen out of your eyes.
• Wash your hands and face frequently.

However, symptoms that persist, worsen, or occur with pain, significant light sensitivity, or changes in vision should be evaluated promptly by an eye doctor. A comprehensive examination can help determine whether prescription allergy drops, dry eye treatment, contact lens adjustments, or additional care may be needed.

If you are experiencing persistent eye irritation this spring, seek an in-person evaluation rather than relying solely on self-treatment.