Spring Allergies and Your Eyes

Spring Allergies and Your Eyes – What You Need to Know This Season

As trees and grasses bloom with the warmer temperatures, spring ushers in a sense of renewal—but for many Calgarians, it also means the return of seasonal allergies.  While sneezing and congestion are common symptoms, did you know that spring allergies can significantly affect your eyes too?

Allergic conjunctivitis is a common condition during allergy season, causing red, itchy, watery, or burning eyes. These symptoms occur when allergens like pollen, grass, and dust come into contact with the sensitive tissues of your eyes, triggering an immune response.  Many individuals who have moved to Calgary recently may not have been exposed to the types of trees and grasses local to the area and can experience spring time allergies even if they have not had issues with allergies in the past.

Here’s what you can do to protect your eyes and enjoy the season more comfortably:

Top 3 Tips to Manage Eye Allergy Symptoms

1. Keep Allergens Out One of the best ways to reduce eye irritation is by limiting exposure to allergens:

• Keep windows closed on high-pollen days.
• Use sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from airborne particles.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, which can worsen irritation.

2. Use Artificial Tears Preservative-free artificial tears can help rinse away allergens and soothe irritated eyes. Store them in the refrigerator for an extra cooling effect. Use them regularly, even when symptoms are mild, to maintain comfort and eye health.

3. Cool Compresses for Relief Applying a clean, cold compress to closed eyelids can reduce inflammation and itching. It's a simple, natural way to relieve discomfort and calm the eye tissues after exposure to allergens.

How an Eye Doctor Can Help

While home remedies offer relief, they may not be enough for everyone. If your symptoms are persistent or affecting your daily life, it’s time to see an eye doctor. Optometrists can:

• Diagnose the type and severity of your eye allergies.
• Prescribe allergy-specific eye drops, such as antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers, which are more effective than over-the-counter options.
• Rule out other eye conditions that can mimic allergy symptoms, like dry eye or infections.
• Create a personalized treatment plan, especially if you have contact lenses or other eye conditions that complicate allergy care.

At our clinic, we often see a surge in visits for allergy-related eye concerns during the spring. The good news? In Alberta, eye exams related to medically necessary issues—like red, itchy, or watery eyes caused by allergies—are covered by Alberta Health Care. That means you don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs for essential care.

Don’t Let Allergies Blur Your Spring

Spring should be a time to enjoy nature—not suffer from it. If your eyes are bothering you this season, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our clinic. Our optometrists are here to help you see clearly and comfortably through every season.

📞 Call us or book online to schedule your eye health visit today. Let’s keep your eyes happy and allergy-free!