Allergy Season & Your Eyes: What Your Optometrist Can Do

As the trees bloom and the weather warms up in Germantown, many people look forward to enjoying the outdoors again. Unfortunately, spring and fall also bring allergy season - and for many, that means itchy, watery, and irritated eyes. Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, can make it hard to focus on daily activities and may even affect your vision if left untreated.

Understanding Eye Allergies

Eye allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold. This reaction triggers the release of histamines, which cause inflammation in the eyes. As a result, you may experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including redness and irritation, excessive tearing, itchy eyes and eyelids, burning or stinging sensations, and swelling around the eyes.

While these symptoms are especially common during allergy season, they can sometimes be mistaken for other eye conditions, such as dry eye disease or infections. Because of this overlap, a professional eye exam is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan.

How Your Optometrist Can Help

When you visit EyeDocs Family Eye Care for allergy-related eye problems, we go beyond over-the-counter remedies. Our approach includes:

• Accurate Diagnosis: Not all red or itchy eyes are caused by allergies. We’ll perform a thorough exam to determine if your symptoms are due to allergies, dry eyes, or another eye condition.

• Prescription Medications: If needed, we can prescribe antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops that work faster and more effectively than store-bought options.

• Dry Eye & Allergy Management: Allergies and dry eye symptoms often overlap. We can create a customized treatment plan to address both conditions for lasting relief.

• Contact Lens Solutions: For contact lens wearers, allergies can be especially challenging. We may recommend switching to daily disposable lenses or using specific cleaning solutions to reduce allergen buildup.

• Preventive Strategies: Your optometrist can provide guidance on reducing exposure to allergens - from wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors to using air filters at home.

Tips for Protecting Your Eyes This Allergy Season

• Keep windows closed on high-pollen days

• Remove contact lenses before sleeping

• Rinse your eyes with preservative-free artificial tears

• Wash your face and hands after being outside

• Avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can worsen irritation

Find Relief from Eye Allergies

Eye allergies can make an otherwise beautiful season feel unbearable. But with the right diagnosis and personalized care, you don’t have to suffer through weeks of discomfort. We are here to help you manage your eye allergy symptoms with personalized care tailored to your needs.

If you’re experiencing eye allergy symptoms, schedule your eye exam with EyeDocs Family Eye Care and take the first step toward healthier eyes. Visit our office in Germantown, Ohio, or call (937) 745-2100 to book an appointment today.