Could You Have Fall Eye Allergies?

Eye irritation and symptoms like itching, watering, burning, and redness can stem from a few different factors. We may develop mild symptoms if we stare at a computer screen for too long, or if we are exposed to an allergen. We may develop symptoms from dry eye. Discovering the cause of eye symptoms is important so that proper remedies or treatment may be followed.

Eye allergies can result from exposure to environmental irritants such as pollen or mold spores. When exposed, the body releases histamines that can cause various unpleasant symptoms such as those we’ve mentioned. Dry eye disease, on the other hand, may cause these symptoms and more. When a person has dry eye disease, they may experience stinging, redness, and a gritty sensation that are so severe that they become disruptive. 

It is possible to have both dry eye disease and eye allergies at the same time. A visit with an ophthalmologist can help you determine the true underlying cause of ocular symptoms and what to do about them. 

Fall Eye Allergy Triggers

At this time of year, multiple triggers for ocular allergies exist. These include:

• Pollen
• Ragweed
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Pigweed
• Spores
• Goldenrod
• Sagebrush
• Sorrel

How to Manage Fall Eye Allergies

If you tend to notice heightened symptoms when you spend time outdoors, you may be suffering from ocular allergies rather than dry eye disease. To reduce your symptoms, try the following:

• Keep the windows closed when you’re indoors. 
• Try to stay indoors until late morning or early afternoon. The majority of pollen is released in the early morning.
• Stay abreast of pollen counts in your area and stay indoors when the count is high.
• If you live in an area where mold is prevalent, place a dehumidifier in your home and office. 
• Wear sunglasses or other glasses outside to protect your eyes from environmental irritants. 
• Do not let leaves accumulate around your home, as they may encourage mold growth.
• Shower after spending time outdoors to rinse pollen and spores off the skin. 
• When having an allergy flare-up, wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses. 

If you are experiencing ocular symptoms like excessive watering, itching, burning, redness, or a gritty sensation and you’re not sure why. Contact our Skokie, IL office. A comprehensive eye exam can help identify the cause of your symptoms and potential treatment options. Something as conservative as eye drops may help alleviate your symptoms. 

Contact us at 847-677-2794 to schedule your visit with Dr. Sondheimer.