March is upon us, bringing longer days, warmer temperatures, and melting snow! March can also usher in the beginning of allergy season, which can be a challenging time for adults and kids of all ages, especially those who suffer from eye allergies and dry eye. Because of their similar symptoms, it may be difficult to distinguish between them. Both conditions may also affect the eyes simultaneously, leaving you to wonder if your red, watery eyes are due to seasonal eye allergies or dry eye.
 

Also known as allergic conjunctivitis, eye allergies can cause symptoms including redness, itching, watering, and swelling of the eyes. These symptoms can be mild or severe, and they can affect your ability to perform daily activities. Dry Eye disease generally has two primary causes. Your eyes may not produce enough tears, or you may have a condition called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (or MGD), where the glands in the eyelids become clogged or have issues producing the oil component of tears, causing the eyes to dry out. Common symptoms of dry eye disease may include sensitivity to light, dryness and itchiness, the feeling of a foreign body in the eye, fluctuating vision, eye fatigue, and excess watering.
 

The biggest difference between allergy and dry eye symptoms is itchiness…when the eye is sensitive to an allergen such as pollen or pet dander, histamine is released, causing the eyes to itch, tear, and redden. Additionally, allergies are often accompanied by sneezing, runny nose, or other cold-like symptoms. Dry eye symptoms generally include a dry, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes, redness, watery or teary eyes, which is slightly different than allergy symptoms.
 

Recommendations for treatment will vary, depending on which condition is affecting your eyes. For seasonal eye allergies, an antihistamine can often be quite effective. We also suggest these for helping to combat eye allergy symptoms:
 

• Frequent Hand Washing: There are so many benefits to washing your hands in general, and doing this frequently during allergy season can help reduce the amount of allergens that come into contact with your eyes. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being outside or touching pets.
• Eye Drops: Over-the-counter eye drops can help relieve the symptoms of eye allergies. Antihistamine eye drops can reduce itching and redness, while lubricating eye drops can soothe dry, irritated eyes. Additionally, rubbing your eyes can make the symptoms of eye allergies worse. Instead, try using a cold compress to relieve itching and swelling.
• Wear Your Sunglasses: Wearing sunglasses when you’re outside can help protect your eyes from airborne allergens like pollen and dust. Consider wearing wraparound sunglasses, as they can provide additional protection by preventing allergens from entering your eyes from the sides.

Dry eye syndrome treatments vary from case to case and can range from prescription eye drops to advanced therapies that treat MGD. Our practice offers a comprehensive examination and treatment program for dry eye syndrome. Whether you’re suffering from eye allergies or dry eye, our team of eye care professionals will examine your eyes, determine the cause of your symptoms, and recommend a treatment that can best meet your unique needs. Call us to schedule your appointment today!