How Do Seasonal Allergies Affect the Eyes, and How Can I Reduce the Symptoms?

With spring and summer right around the corner, there is plenty of excitement about enjoying the outdoor weather again. However, seasonal allergies may disrupt your outdoor plans. In addition to several respiratory symptoms, seasonal allergies can cause severe eye irritation and itchiness. Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates in Columbia, SC, is here to tell you how seasonal allergies affect the eyes and offer ways to prevent symptoms.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

Pollen, dust mites, and other seasonal allergens can invade your immune system, triggering a reaction that causes several uncomfortable symptoms. Many people experience allergic conjunctivitis due to seasonal allergens. This condition can cause the following symptoms:

•             Itchy eyes

•             Redness

•             Watery eyes

•             Burning sensation

•             Light sensitivity

•             Eye strain or soreness

The seasonal allergens may also cause your eyelids to swell. Because of this, wearing contacts may become uncomfortable. Some people require specific contact lenses to help them see clearly and comfortably when dealing with seasonal allergies.

Ways You Can Manage Seasonal Allergies

The first step toward managing seasonal allergies is knowing which allergens trigger a reaction. Our optometrist can identify allergens that affect your eyes and offer ways to limit exposure. This may include staying indoors when pollen counts are high or more frequent cleaning to remove dust mites. Using a cold compress is also beneficial for reducing eye inflammation and puffiness.

Our optometrist can recommend over-the-counter eye drops and medications to reduce inflammation and itchiness in more severe cases of allergic conjunctivitis. Changing contacts may be necessary if your lenses exacerbate allergy symptoms. We can prescribe specialized contact lenses for people who suffer from eye allergies.

Visit Your Eye Clinic Near Me in Columbia, SC, for Allergy Treatment Today

If you are experiencing significant eye irritation and discomfort due to allergies and need an “eye clinic near me” for treatment, contact Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates in Columbia, SC. Our optometrist can identify your allergens and recommend treatment to help you see clearly and comfortably again. Call us and schedule an appointment at our eye clinic today at (803) 254-6306 to get lasting relief.