Spring is a season that symbolizes new beginnings. After enduring the cold and harsh winter months, we can finally look forward to the blooming of flowers and spending more time outdoors. This year, the season will officially begin on Tuesday, March 19th, which marks the first day of Spring. It is the time of year when most allergy sufferers experience their seasonal allergies to the fullest extent. While spring brings pleasant weather, it also brings pollen, pet dander, mold, and dust, which can trigger discomforting reactions such as coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, congestion, and sinus pain for those allergic to airborne allergens. Eye allergies, also known as “allergic conjunctivitis,” tend to be chronic and flare up during periods of heavy pollen, dust, and other allergen exposure.

Common allergic conjunctivitis symptoms

  • Itchy eyes
  • Watery eyes/tearing
  • Eye redness
  • Swelling of the eye tissues and eye area
  • Eye irritation
These symptoms can cause significant discomfort, blurred vision, and problems with contact lens wear.

Check Out 6 Tips To Get You Through Spring Eye Allergy Season:

  • Pollen tends to have a higher count in the mornings and early evenings. During these times, stay inside and keep the windows closed. Consider an alternative indoor workout during peak allergy season if you enjoy an early morning exercise run.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Change your linens more often during the spring season. Remnants of airborne allergens can stay on towels and bed sheets. Washing them in hot water frequently can minimize some of your allergic reactions.
  • Reduce contact lens wear time or consider switching to daily disposable contact lenses.
  • Take a shower before going to sleep. Doing this at night can rinse away any lingering allergens, leaving you with a clearer eye and nasal area and a more restful night’s sleep. Also, washing your hair at night helps prevent pollen from lodging in your pillows and blankets.
  • Please avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can worsen the situation.
  • See your eye doctor for prescription-strength eye drops and other recommendations to reduce the allergic response.

Is It More Than Allergies?

Specific eye allergy symptoms can also be signs of eye conditions or diseases, so pay close attention to reactions that don’t dissipate after spring allergy season. Please call to schedule an appointment if your eye reactions worsen during or after spring allergy season ends. We are here to help your eyes have a HAPPY SPRING!

Smell the flowers with clear, comfortable eyes this Spring.

References: American Academy of Ophthalmology and American Optometric Association This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided in this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician.