Tens of millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies each year. In fact, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the United States. We find that many of our patients struggle with various minor symptoms, especially during spring and summer months. Are allergies affecting your mental and physical wellbeing? The following are common eye symptoms of allergies from our experience, and some general best practices for reducing their severity. 

Redness

One of the most common eye symptoms of allergies is redness. Sometimes, this can occur without you even realizing it, and others may notice it before you do personally. This symptom typically doesn’t cause too many issues aside from making you less photogenic. While redness can be a sign of seasonal or environmental allergies, it may also indicate other conditions.

Redness is often caused by dry, irritated eyes. However, it can also arise from smoke, vitamin deficiency, and rheumatoid arthritis. If you struggle with redness, consider your habits and environment. Change your contacts, try to improve indoor air quality, and adjust your diet to reduce inflammation. Also, make sure to take breaks when viewing an electronic device for lengthy periods of time. 

Itchy or Watery Eyes

Of all the eye symptoms of allergies, the most annoying is probably itchiness. Itchy eyes may arise for many reasons, from inflammation and injuries to excessive rubbing. However, the most common cause, by far, is allergies. Lubricating eyedrops, anti-allergy medications, and a cold compress can help to reduce the severity of this symptom.

If itchiness persists for more than a few days, then take stock of your surroundings. There may be something in your car, home, or office that is setting it off. Something as simple as old coffee or a damp room may be triggering an underlying mold allergy.

Can you remember a time when your eyes seemed to tear up for no reason? Allergies may also be a cause of this common symptom. The purpose of tears is to keep your eyes hydrated, to enhance vision, and protect against contaminants. This is why allergens can cause your eyes to water. Excess blinking or rubbing of your eyes provoked by allergies can also cause this symptom to worsen. 

Light Sensitivity and Burning Sensations

Light sensitivity can be a particularly problematic symptom of allergies. When you’re sensitive to light, it may affect several essential activities such as driving and cooking. Light sensitivity can also be frustrating for anyone who prefers to spend a lot of time outdoors. Wearing sunglasses and dimming overhead lights may reduce the impact of this symptom for most people.

One of the less common eye symptoms of allergies is a burning feeling. Though it’s rare, burning sensations can be extremely frustrating and even dangerous. If you feel occasional burning in one or both eyes, then try rinsing them with lukewarm water to remove allergens. Take note and consult your physician if this symptom persists, as it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Avoid driving or operating machinery if the pain becomes distracting or unbearable. 

How Do I Treat Eye Symptoms of Allergies? 

It’s always worth paying attention to your diet, the air you breathe, and the condition of your home. Oftentimes, many eye symptoms of allergies can be traced back to environmental triggers. If allergies are causing problems with your eyes, there are some over-the-counter treatments you can try. However, if your allergies are moderate or severe, you’ll want to schedule a visit to your doctor or optometrist. They can offer precise advice and suggest effective long-term treatments. We encourage you to contact us for more information on allergies and how to improve your specific symptoms today.