Allergies can turn what should be a pleasant day into an uncomfortable battle. From rubbing itchy, swollen eyes to dealing with constant watering and blurred vision, the struggle is all too real for many. Allergies can absolutely leave your eyes feeling dry, irritated, and even sensitive to light, making it difficult to focus on your day-to-day activities.
For some, even simple tasks like reading, working on a computer, or going outside on a sunny day can become challenging due to the discomfort. The constant cycle of irritation and relief can make managing allergies feel like an uphill battle.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition where your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears they do produce aren’t balanced properly. Tears may seem simple, but they’re actually made up of 3 critical layers:
- Watery layer: Keeps your eyes hydrated and helps flush out debris
- Mucous layer: Ensures that tears stick evenly to the surface of the eye
- Oily layer: Slows tear evaporation and keeps them from drying out too quickly
When 1 of these layers isn’t functioning correctly, your tears can’t properly do their job. This leads to symptoms like:
- A scratchy or gritty feeling (like there’s sand in your eye)
- Redness or irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Excessive tearing or watery eyes as a response to dryness
If untreated, dry eye can lead to complications like an increased risk of infections or corneal damage. That’s why addressing it early is key!
Allergies & Your Eyes
Seasonal allergies (or even year-round allergens like dust mites and pet dander) can wreak havoc on your eyes. Here’s how it happens:
When you encounter allergens, your immune system kicks into overdrive, releasing histamines to combat what it sees as an invader. This causes inflammation in various parts of your body, including your eyes. That inflammation can disrupt the glands in your eyelids that produce healthy tears, throwing off the delicate balance of your tear film.
The result? Classic allergy symptoms like:
- Itchy, watery, or burning sensations
- Swollen eyelids or conjunctiva
- Red eyes
- A persistent feeling that something’s in your eye
You might also notice these alongside sneezing and nasal congestion, which can amplify your overall discomfort.
Can Antihistamines Worsen Dry Eye?
Antihistamines are a popular go-to remedy for allergy symptoms, but they can sometimes make dry eyes worse. Oral allergy medications or antihistamine eye drops can reduce tear production, which intensifies dryness. Don’t worry, though—there are ways to counteract this side effect:
- Use preservative-free artificial tears to restore moisture.
- Consider switching to allergy eye drops with fewer drying side effects. Talk to your eye doctor for personalized recommendations.
Tips for Preventing Allergic Reactions
While managing symptoms is essential, preventing exposure to allergens can make a huge difference in reducing flare-ups. Here are some practical steps to try:
- Close windows during high-pollen seasons and avoid using window fans.
- Shower before bed to wash off pollen from your skin and hair.
- Use allergen-proof pillow cases and wash your bedding frequently.
- Keep indoor air fresh with a humidifier.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses when outside to keep allergens away from your eyes.
- Wash your hands after playing with pets or spending time outdoors.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, no matter how itchy they feel.
Consistent small actions like these can help minimize allergic reactions and reduce the likelihood of experiencing dry eye symptoms.
Managing Allergy-Related Dry Eyes
Sometimes, symptoms can hit hard despite your best efforts. Here are some effective ways to soothe dry, irritated eyes caused by allergies:
- Artificial tears: Lubricating your eyes with preservative-free artificial tears helps rehydrate them and flush out allergens.
- Medicated eye drops: These can help reduce inflammation, redness, or itching caused by specific eye conditions.
- Punctal plugs: Tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to help retain moisture and prevent dry eyes.
If persistent irritation or discomfort makes daily activities difficult, consult with your optometrist at Calgary Optometry Centre. Every case of allergic dry eye is unique, so targeted treatment can help you achieve a better result.
Get Dry Eye Relief
Allergies and dry eyes are a common combination that can complicate everyday life, but you don’t have to put up with itchy, irritated eyes. Prevent allergens when you can, soothe symptoms as they arise, and get professional help when needed.
We understand how disruptive allergies and dry eye can be to your quality of life. At Calgary Optometry Centre, we don’t just treat the symptoms; we address the root of the issue. Our compassionate eye care professionals can provide personalized advice and treatments to help you feel your best, every day.
Don’t wait to get relief. Book an appointment with our team today.
