Seasonal Allergies | Itchy Eyes & Allergy Relief

Itchy, red, watery eyes? Learn how seasonal allergies affect your eyes, what causes them, and how your optometrist can help you find relief.

What It Is 

Seasonal allergies — also known as allergic conjunctivitis — occur when your immune system overreacts to environmental triggers such as pollen, grass, ragweed, or mold spores. 
These allergens cause your body to release histamine, a natural chemical that usually help defend against infection but, in this case, leads to itchy, red, watery eyes and irritation. 

Allergic eye reactions can occur at any age, but they are most common — and often most severe — in the spring and fall, when pollen counts are highest. 

Who It Affects / Causes 

Seasonal allergies happen when airborne allergens bind to mast cells in the eyes and nasal passages. These mast cells then release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, causing swelling, redness, and itching. 

Common triggers include: 
🌳 Tree pollen (spring) 
🌾 Grass pollen (summer) 
🌻 Ragweed pollen (late summer and fall) 
🐶 Dust, mold, or pet dander (year-round for some people) 
🌫️ Poor air quality or pollution, which can intensify symptoms 

Allergies may worsen outdoors on dry, windy days and often improve after rain or in cooler weather. 

Symptoms to Watch For 

Allergic eye symptoms can affect one or both eyes and may develop quickly after exposure to allergens. 
Common signs include: 

• 👁️ Red, itchy, or burning eyes 

• 💧 Watery or teary eyes 

• 😣 Swollen or puffy eyelids 

• 🔥 Stinging or gritty sensation 

• 🌤️ Light sensitivity 

• 🤧 Sneezing, coughing, or nasal congestion 

Unlike infections, allergy-related redness usually doesn’t cause thick discharge or eye pain. 

How It’s Diagnosed 

Your optometrist can diagnose allergic conjunctivitis by: 

• Examining your eyelids and conjunctiva with a slit-lamp biomicroscope 

• Reviewing your medical history and seasonal symptom patterns 

• Ruling out other causes of redness such as dry eye, infection, or blepharitis 

If allergies are severe or recurring, your optometrist may refer you for allergy testing to identify specific triggers. 

Treatment & Management 

While seasonal allergies can’t be cured, they can be well controlled through a combination of avoidance, symptom relief, and ongoing eye care. 

🚫 Reduce Exposure 

• Keep windows closed at home and in the car 

• Use air conditioning during pollen season and clean filters regularly 

• Avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times (usually morning and early afternoon) 

• Shower and wash your face and hands after spending time outdoors 

• Wear sunglasses outdoors to block pollen from reaching your eyes 

• Consider showering before bed  

💊 Medications & Relief Options 

• Artificial tears rinse allergens off the eye’s surface and soothe dryness 

• Cold compresses reduce irritation and swelling 

• Prescription combination drops (antihistamine + mast cell stabilizer) offer both fast and long-term relief 

• Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops 

• Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended for chronic or severe allergies 

⚠️ Avoid overusing “get-the-red-out” eye drops — long-term use can lead to rebound redness, dryness and dependency. 

🧑‍⚕️ Optometrist Care 

Your optometrist can: 

• Rule out infections or more serious causes of redness 

• Prescribe the right antihistamine or anti-inflammatory drops 

• Recommend safe brands of artificial tears and lubricants 

• Monitor for chronic allergic eye disease or corneal irritation from rubbing 

When to See Your Optometrist 

Book an appointment if you experience: 

• Persistent eye redness or swelling 

• Eye itch, thick discharge, or light sensitivity 

Your optometrist can tailor a treatment plan for your specific symptoms and help ensure your eyes stay healthy through allergy season. 

💙 Book an Eye Exam — Ontario optometrists can help identify your triggers and find lasting relief.