Tips on How to Relieve Spring Eye Allergies

Spring is officially here 一 and so are seasonal allergies! While nasal symptoms often take the allergy spotlight, eye allergies shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

Spring eye allergies, also known as seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, can interfere with your ability to see clearly (due to dry eyes), function outside (especially if you’re around your triggers), and perform well in the workplace. 

And red, puffy eyes also can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance.

Our experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists here at Maryland Eye Care Center know that spring eye allergies are a nuisance, and they offer these tips to help you find relief.

Are you dealing with spring eye allergies?

First things first: Are your symptoms caused by seasonal allergies? Some symptoms may overlap multiple conditions. 

For example, itchiness can be a symptom of both allergies and pink eye. These conditions are treated differently, which is why an accurate diagnosis is important before embarking on any treatment plan.

Symptoms of spring eye allergies include:

• Swelling
• Itching
• Watery eyes
• Burning sensations
• “Sore” eyes
• Increased sensitivity to light

Such allergies can even lead to inflammation in your eyelids. You also might notice dark circles under your eyes; these are called allergic shiners. 

Your symptoms may also worsen when you’re exposed to your triggers. For example, if you’re allergic to grass, your eyes might get itchier when you’re mowing the lawn. 

Once you’ve determined that your eye symptoms are related to allergies, you can get started with the following tips.

14 tips to reduce your spring eye allergy triggers

Pollen is the biggest culprit when it comes to spring allergy triggers. That’s because plants 一 trees, grasses, and weeds 一 release tiny pollen grains into the air. Although they do this to fertilize plants, it has unintended consequences for allergy sufferers. 

To relieve the onset of spring eye allergy symptoms, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Use a pollen forecast app (weather apps might work too) to identify high-pollen days.
2. Keep your windows shut to keep allergens out of your house.
3. Use a high-quality air purifier or filter in your home.
4. Stay inside on windy, dry, or high-pollen days, if possible.
5. Wear sunglasses outside for added protection against allergen irritation.
6. Run a dehumidifier in your home to keep mold away.
7. Use pillowcase and mattress protectors that guard against allergens like dust mites.
8. Wash your hands frequently.
9. Take off your shoes in the house to avoid tracking in pollen and other allergens.
10. If you have a dog, wipe your dog’s paws to remove any pollen.
11. Use over-the-counter eye drops, if prescribed.
12. Take a break from contacts and wear eyeglasses if your eyes are itchy and swollen.
13. Rinse your eyes with a saline solution after being outside to help dislodge allergens.
14. Apply cool compresses to ease swelling.

These simple tips won’t make your allergies go away, but they can keep your seasonal eye allergies a bit more manageable. 

Are your eyes still itchy?

If you’ve tried the above strategies and just can’t get your spring eye allergies under control, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. The team here at Maryland Eye Care Center can put you on the path to relief. 

During your comprehensive eye exam, our team reviews your symptoms, performs a thorough exam, and recommends appropriate treatment, including prescription eye drops or other medications.

When you’re ready, schedule your consultation at the Maryland Eye Care Center location nearest you 一 Silver Spring or Hyattsville, Maryland 一 and get the relief you need.