Eye Allergies

Do you tend to get watery, red, and itchy eyes at certain times of year or in certain environments? It could be allergies. Allergies affect more than just your nose — they can cause eye discomfort, too. There are two types of eye allergies: Seasonal and perennial. 

When eye allergies are severe, they can really disrupt your life, keeping you out of school or work. That’s when you’ll want to schedule an appointment at your neighborhood EyeCare Center. 

 On the page, you’ll learn about what causes eye allergies, common symptoms, and how you can help protect yourself.

Seasonal Eye Allergies

It’s no coincidence that eye allergies flare up in the late spring and early fall. This reaction is called seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) or hay fever. It’s typically brought on when grasses, weeds, and trees release pollen into the air, and it can also be triggered by exposure to mold spores. 

The symptoms of seasonal eye allergies can include: 

• Itching
• Redness
• Tearing
• Burning sensation
• Swelling
• Discharge

With seasonal eye allergies, you’ll notice these symptoms flare up during certain months — usually spring, summer, or fall, depending on where you live and which allergens are in the air.

Prevention and Treatment for Seasonal Eye Allergies

Seasonal allergies are common but can still disrupt your daily routine. Try avoiding triggers by:

• Checking the pollen count. If it’s high, try limiting your time outdoors, closing your windows, and using an air conditioner instead of a fan to stay cool (fans can circulate dust mites).
• Using protective sunglasses to shield your eyes. If you need prescription sunglasses, visit your local EyeCare Center to choose from our wide collection of designer brands, such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Coach, and Vogue.
• Keeping your windows closed while driving to prevent allergens from entering your car.

You can also help relieve the symptoms with:

• A cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Over-the-counter antihistamines. The same allergy medications that relieve nasal reactions can be used for eye allergy relief.
• Sterile saline rinses that can help flush out allergens from your eyes.
• Eyedrops with ketotifen. Ask your optometrist about prescribing the correct eye drops.

 If symptoms persist despite home treatments or significantly impact your daily life, it's best to see a doctor. Visit an optometrist for eye-specific issues or a physician if you have other allergy symptoms. 

Perennial Eye Allergies

Perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC) is also caused by allergens in the environment, except they’re present year-round, especially in your home. Common triggers for perennial eye allergies are animal dander, dust mites, and mold. 

 Perennial eye allergy symptoms may include: 

• Intense itching
• Chronic redness and irritation
• Tearing
• Constant burning feeling
• Puffy, swollen eyes
• Clear, watery discharge

With perennial eye allergies, you’ll notice the symptoms flare up in certain environments — typically your home. They might also be worse in the morning. 

Prevention and Treatment for Perennial Eye Allergies

It’s difficult to avoid your own home, but you can still minimize the effects of PAC by:

• Washing your bed sheets and covers regularly.
• Vacuuming and mopping frequently.
• Using bleach when cleaning your bathroom to diminish mold.
• Keeping humidity low with a dehumidifier to prevent mold.
• Keeping pets out of your bedroom and bathing them often.

 Treatment for PAC is similar to other types of eye allergies. You can: 

• Use over-the-counter artificial tears to help soothe irritated eyes.
• Use antihistamine eye drops to relieve itching and redness.
• Put a cold compress over your eyes to help with swelling and burning. 
• Rinse your eyes with sterile saline solution.
• Ask your doctor about eyedrops with ketotifen.

See a doctor for severe or persistent symptoms. An optometrist can address eye-specific issues, while a physician can help manage broader allergy symptoms. Both can provide prescription medications and other treatments.

Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a severe, chronic eye allergy that primarily affects children and young adults, especially males. VKC is caused by an allergic reaction to airborne allergens such as pollen and dust and is most common in the spring and summer months, especially in warm climates.  

VKC is a more severe eye allergy type than the typical conjunctivitis seen in SAC and PAC because it affects both the conjunctiva and the cornea. It can lead to severe complications if untreated. 

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis symptoms can include: 

• Severe itching that can be relentless and disruptive
• Significant redness and inflammation in the eyes
• Sticky, thick discharge that can form crusts
• Sensitivity to light, causing discomfort in bright conditions
• Feeling like there is something in your eye
• Swelling of the eyelids and conjunctiva
• Excessive tearing that can blur vision

Prevention and Treatment for Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

VKC is a severe reaction you may not be able to prevent. However, you can try limiting your exposure to known allergens, especially during peak seasons. You can also try treating it at home with: 

• A cold compress
• Artificial tears
• Antihistamines

If you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction in the eyes that are severe, persistent, or affect your vision, see an optometrist or physician. They might prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs like mast cell stabilizers or corticosteroid eye drops. Early treatment can prevent complications and preserve your eye health.

Get Help for Eye Allergies

While the seasonal and perennial types of eye allergies aren’t a threat to your eyes or vision, symptoms may be an indicator of an infection or something more serious. At Pearle Vision, our optometrists can help you select a medication to relieve your eye allergies or refer you to a specialist if your symptoms are severe. For a consultation, schedule an eye exam at your neighborhood EyeCare Center today.

Types of Eye Allergies FAQ

How do seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis differ?

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis occurs during specific seasons due to outdoor allergens, while perennial allergic conjunctivitis persists year-round due to indoor allergens. Both eye allergy types cause similar symptoms, like itching and redness.

Are there any specific eye drops for treating eye allergies?

Yes, lubricating, antihistamine, mast cell stabilizer, and steroid eye drops can relieve the symptoms of most types of eye allergies. Talk to a doctor for the most effective treatment plan.

How are eye allergies diagnosed?

Eye allergies are diagnosed through patient history, symptom review, and a physical eye examination by an optometrist or physician. Your doctor might also recommend allergy testing.

Can eye allergies lead to more serious conditions?

Yes, severe eye allergies like vernal keratoconjunctivitis can lead to infections, corneal damage, and vision problems. See a doctor if your symptoms are severe or persistent.

Can eye allergies be prevented?

You can prevent eye allergies by avoiding allergens, practicing good hygiene, using air purifiers, and regularly washing your pets and bedding. You can also use antihistamines and eye drops.

When should I see a doctor about eye allergies?

See a doctor if symptoms worsen, persist, affect vision, or if home treatments are ineffective. Both optometrists and physicians can provide appropriate care.

Can contacts make eye allergies worse?

Yes, contact lenses can trap allergens and irritate the eyes, worsening symptoms of an allergic reaction. Switching to glasses during allergy season may help reduce discomfort.