Understanding Seasonal Allergies

As the seasons change, so do the allergens in the air—and for many people, that means dealing with itchy, red, and watery eyes. While seasonal allergies are often associated with sneezing and nasal congestion, their effects on eye health can be just as uncomfortable and disruptive.

At Sherwood Park Eye Centre, we see many patients during spring and fall who are struggling with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, a common condition triggered by airborne allergens. Here’s what you need to know about how seasonal allergies affect your eyes—and what you can do about it.

What Are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are your immune system’s overreaction to substances like pollen, mold spores, or dust mites. When these allergens come into contact with your eyes, they trigger the release of histamines, leading to inflammation and classic allergy symptoms.

Some of the symptoms associated with allergies are itching or burning sensation, redness and puffiness, watery or teary eyes, grittiness or the feeling of sand in the eyes, as well as sensitivity to light. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they can interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or working on a screen.

Why the Eyes Are So Affected

Your eyes are constantly exposed to the environment and have a thin, sensitive outer layer called the conjunctiva, which is easily irritated by allergies. Unlike your nose, which can filter out some airborne particles, your eyes have limited defense mechanisms beyond blinking and tear production.

This makes them especially vulnerable during high pollen seasons.

Managing Seasonal Eye Allergies

The good news is that seasonal eye allergies are highly manageable. Here are some tips and treatment options we often recommend:

1. Avoid Allergen Exposure

This can be done by checking your daily pollen counts and trying to stay indoors when they are high, as well as keeping your windows closed during peak allergy seasons. Some other helpful tips are to use an air purifier to reduce allergens in your home, and being sure to wear sunglasses outdoors to shield your eyes from any airborne pollen.

2. Use Artificial Tears

Preservative-free artificial tears can help flush allergens out of your eyes and soothe irritation. They’re a safe and effective first step for mild symptoms.

3. Cold Compresses

A cool compress applied over closed eyes can reduce itching and swelling.

4. Antihistamine or Mast Cell Stabilizer Eye Drops

These prescription or over-the-counter drops can relieve itching and redness by blocking the release of histamines. If you are unsure exactly which drops to use you can always ask your optometrist or a pharmacist to ensure you are picking the best option for your eyes.

5. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

As tempting as it may be, rubbing your eyes can make symptoms worse by releasing more histamines and possibly causing damage to the delicate eye tissues.

6. Consult Your Optometrist

If your symptoms persist or interfere with your daily life, it’s important to get a professional eye exam. We can help determine whether allergies are the cause—or if another condition is contributing to your discomfort.

We’re Here to Help You See Clearly, Season After Season

Seasonal allergies may be a common nuisance, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through them. At SPEC, we offer personalized care and treatment options to help you manage eye allergies effectively and comfortably.

Don’t let allergy season cloud your vision. Book an appointment today and let us help you enjoy clear, comfortable sight all year round.