Is It Dry Eyes or Seasonal Allergies?

Many people experience either dry eye syndrome or seasonal allergies during the summer and spring seasons. It can be hard to distinguish between the two because their symptoms are very much alike. Some people also suffer from both conditions at the same time, leading them to experience great discomfort at specific times of the year.
 

How do you differentiate between dry eyes syndrome and seasonal allergies?
 

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

The foremost cause of dry eye syndrome is (MGD) meibomian gland dysfunction. At least 86 percent of people who suffer from dry eye syndrome have meibomian gland dysfunction.

MGD is caused by the obstruction of the meibomian gland in the eyelids. The blockage prevents the eye from producing a healthy tear film with the lipid layer. Without the critical lipid layer created by the meibomian glands, a tear film evaporates quickly, leaving the eye exposed to the elements.

The symptoms caused by this are irritation, redness, watery eyes, and a scratchy sensation. The environment makes these symptoms worse, especially in spring and summer.

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

Pollen is one of the most prevalent causes of seasonal allergies. Other allergens that might affect your eyes are dust mites, mold, perfumes and fragrances, smoke, and pet dander. You are more predisposed to seasonal allergies if you have hay fever or nasal allergies.

Seasonal Allergies and Dry Eye

Exposure to sunlight, dust, pollen, chlorine, or sunscreen exacerbates the effects of dry eye. According to some studies, up to 21 percent of dry eye diagnoses happen in April and the lowest incidences of dry eye symptoms occur in summer when the allergy season ends.

Usually, eye doctors treat dry eye syndrome and seasonal allergies as two different conditions. However, a study by the University of Miami suggests that the two conditions are related, despite their symptoms varying slightly. This has led to treatments in allergy prevention for patients also suffering from dry eye syndrome.

Dry Eye Symptoms

• A feeling of sand in the eye.
• Alternating between watery eyes and dry eyes.
• Blurred vision.
• Redness.
• Stinging or burning feeling.
• A stringy discharge from the eyes.

There is usually increased discomfort for people with dry eyes during the dry months.

Treatment

Artificial tears will help lubricate your eyes. In more severe cases, prescription eye drops are necessary.

Seasonal Allergies Symptoms

• Red eyes.
• Swollen eyelids.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Itchiness.
• Stinging or burning eyes.
• Nasal congestion, a runny nose, and watery eyes.

Because symptoms of seasonal allergies and dry eye overlap, you should obtain a correct diagnosis from the eye doctor. The optometrist will examine you to determine whether you have allergies or dry eye.

Treatment

Taking antihistamines can prevent allergies. For instant relief, try eye drops. The best eye drops are those free of preservatives.

For more on dry eyes and seasonal allergies, call Hunter Family Vision at our office in Leawood or Prairie Village, Kansas. You can reach us at (913) 681-8555 or (913) 381-2323 to book an appointment today. For urgent care after hours, call (913) 204-0239.