How Do Seasonal Allergies Affect The Eyes And How Can I Reduce The Symptoms?

Seasonal allergies impact millions of children and adults from all walks of life each year. From allergic conjunctivitis to hay fever and pollen allergies, seasonal allergies can affect the eyes in many different ways. If you're in need of assistance with allergy treatments this year, and you want to work with an optometrist near you in Elkton, MD or Newark, DE, Lavenburg Medical Group can help.

How Seasonal Allergies Affect the Eyes

Seasonal allergies occur when various allergens such as mold, dust, or pollen trigger an immune system response throughout the body. As allergens come in direct contact with the eyes, the body begins releasing histamines, leading to irritation and, in many cases, even inflammation surrounding the eyes.

Common Symptoms of Eye Allergies

Eye allergies often present with the same symptoms, including:

• Redness: Redness is a common sign that indicates blood vessels are irritated due to dilation.
• Itchiness: Itchy eyes are also a tell-tale sign that you may be suffering from seasonal allergies, especially if you've recently been exposed to allergens.
• Swelling: Swelling of the eyelids can indicate inflammation due to allergies.
• Watering Eyes: Persistent watering of the eyes can be caused by your eyes' efforts to flush out and remove toxins and built-up allergens.
• Burning: Burning sensations are not uncommon along with blurred vision.
• Light Sensitivity: Seasonal allergies can also cause individuals to feel much more sensitive to light exposure, both interior and natural.

Common Seasonal Allergy Allergens

Allergens that are most likely to impact millions of individuals each year include:

• Dust mites
• Pollen
• Pet dander
• Mold spores
• Smoke and pollution

Tips to Reduce Seasonal Allergies

You can reduce allergy responses year-round by keeping the following tips in mind:

• Wear protective gear: Wear UV-protective sunglasses anytime you're outdoors or exposed to surrounding allergens.
• Rinse Eyes: Rinse your eyes frequently when you've been exposed to allergens outdoors.
• Limit Exposure: Take precautions to limit your exposure to allergens and minimize the risk of experiencing a major flare-up.
• Visit an Optometrist: Seeing an expert in optometry is a way to learn more about reducing exposure to allergens and triggers in your everyday life.

Get Optometry Care and Allergy Treatment from an Optometrist Near You

If you're dealing with seasonal allergies, or you're interested in working with an optometrist near you in Elkton, MD, or Newark, DE, we at Lavenburg Medical Group are here for you. To learn how seasonal allergies affect the eyes and how to go about mitigating flare-ups and outbreaks, give us a call to schedule your initial consultation and first appointment today.

Call us at (410) 392-6133 or at (302) 993-0722 for optometry care and allergy treatment from an optometrist near you.