Don’t Let Spring Allergies Ruin Your Vision: A Survival Guide

Spring is here, and everything seems instantly better. The sun is shining, the temperatures are rising, and the flowers are in bloom. What could go wrong?

If you’re part of the up to 40% of Americans who suffer from eye allergies, you already know the answer to that question. Seasonal allergies can wreak havoc on your vision, but our expert team at Berkeley Heights Eye Group is here to help.

Here’s how to survive the season without spring allergies ruining your vision.

Understanding eye allergies

Eye allergies, also called allergic conjunctivitis, occur when your immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, grass, and mold spores. Your body treats these substances as harmful invaders, fighting back by releasing histamines in your eyes.

That can cause your eyes to become itchy, red, watery, and inflamed. You may also experience a burning sensation, swelling, light sensitivity, and blurry vision. Allergies typically affect both eyes at the same time.

How to prevent eye allergies

A good way to protect your vision during allergy season is to prevent allergies in the first place. Monitor daily pollen counts (weather apps are good for this) and plan to be outdoors when counts are lower, which is typically during the afternoon and on rainy days. 

When you do go outside, wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes and create a physical barrier against allergens in the air. Shower (or at least wash your hands and face) and change your clothes when you go back inside.

Speaking of indoors, keep your windows closed in spring, especially on days with high pollen counts, and change your air filters regularly to keep the air in your house as clean as possible. 

If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to daily disposable lenses to keep allergens from accumulating on the lenses.

How to treat eye allergies

Despite these efforts, you may still confront occasional eye allergies. Common treatment options include artificial tears, which can flush allergens from your eyes and provide moisture to soothe them.

Antihistamine eye drops are available over-the-counter and can relieve itchiness and redness, while prescription medication is available for more severe cases. A cold compress draped over your eyes can also provide relief.

And, as tempting as it is, avoid rubbing your eyes. It may feel good in the moment, but it releases more histamine and increases irritation and the risk of damage to your corneas.

If allergy symptoms interfere with your daily vision, our team at Berkeley Heights Eye Group can help get you back on track. To schedule an appointment, call our New Providence, New Jersey, office or use our online scheduling tool today.