Allergy Season and Your Eyes: What to Know

Allergy season is upon us, and while many focus on sneezing and runny noses, allergies can significantly impact your eyes. Understanding how pollen affects your eyes and knowing how to manage the symptoms can provide much-needed relief. This article will explore the connection between allergies and eye irritation, effective treatments, and what to avoid for optimal eye health.

How Pollen Affects Your Eyes

Pollen in the air acts as an irritant to the surface of the eye, triggering itching and inflammation. Rubbing or scratching the eyes exacerbates the problem, causing bumps inside the eyelids to enlarge and increase irritation. This creates a cycle of discomfort and further inflammation.

Effective Treatments for Allergy Eyes

Several options can help alleviate allergy-related eye symptoms:

• Antihistamine Eye Drops: Dr. Janelle Sventek, an optometrist at UAB Eye Care, recommends starting with antihistamine eye drop treatments like Zaditor or Pataday.
• Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress over the eyes can provide soothing relief from inflammation.

What to Avoid for Allergy Eye Relief

While many over-the-counter eye drops promise redness relief, some can worsen symptoms in the long run. Dr. Sventek cautions against using drops like Visine or Rohto.

“A lot of time, people, when they have allergies, they’ll have red eyes and so they’ll reach for a Visine or a Rohto,” Sventek said. “I usually actually recommend avoiding those because they create a rebound of redness. So once you use the Visine once, it makes your eyes super pretty and white but then the blood vessels engorge larger than they were initially and so it makes your eyes look even worse than they were to begin with.”

Expert Insight: Dr. Janelle Sventek

Dr. Janelle Sventek is an assistant professor at the UAB School of Optometry and has a strong interest in pediatrics, vision therapy, and myopia control. Learn more about Dr. Sventek.

When to Seek Professional Help

If symptoms persist or worsen despite home remedies and over-the-counter treatments, it’s essential to consult an eye care professional. An optometrist can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Key Takeaways

• Pollen is a common eye irritant during allergy season.
• Antihistamine eye drops and cold compresses can provide relief.
• Avoid redness-relief eye drops like Visine or Rohto, as they can worsen symptoms.
• Consult an eye care professional for persistent or severe symptoms.