Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and, unfortunately, the onset of allergy season for many. In Virginia Beach, the lush landscapes and coastal blooms can make symptoms much worse for allergy sufferers. As a family optometrist serving a diverse demographic in this vibrant area, we understand the impact of seasonal allergies, not just on your sinuses but also on your eyes.
Below, we discuss how to recognize springtime allergies, how they affect your eyes, and what you can do about them. If you or a loved one suffers from seasonal allergies, contact Morgan Vision Care to learn how we can help.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Spring Allergies
Exactly how allergies affect someone varies from person to person. Even so, there are common symptoms to be aware of as the season changes, ranging from mild irritations to more severe reactions that can impact your daily life and well-being. These include:
Nasal Symptoms: Sneezing, congestion, and a runny nose are classic signs of spring allergies.
Eye Symptoms: Itchy, red, swollen, or watery eyes are clear indicators that your eyes are reacting to allergens in the environment.
Respiratory Symptoms: Coughing and shortness of breath can also occur, especially in those with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Particularly for our eyes, allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander can cause a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis. This condition inflames the membrane covering the eye and the inside of the eyelids, leading to the uncomfortable symptoms many experience.
How Allergies Affect Your Eyes and What You Can Do
Beyond the constant discomfort, allergies can interfere with daily activities such as driving, working, or enjoying the outdoors. For those wearing contact lenses, eye allergies can make lens wear challenging, as symptoms can worsen with their use. Common symptoms include:
Redness: Allergens can cause blood vessels in your eyes to enlarge, making them appear red.
Itchiness and Swelling: These are reactions to your body releasing histamines to fight off the allergens.
Tearing and Discharge: Your eyes might produce extra tears and mucus in response to the irritation.
Protecting your eyes during allergy season involves a few key strategies, including wearing sunglasses outdoors to block pollen, using air purifiers at home, and keeping windows closed during high pollen days. Speak to our eye care team to discuss how over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications may also be able to provide relief.
Eye Allergy Care in Virginia Beach
For residents of Virginia Beach and the surrounding areas, understanding and combatting the effects of spring allergies on your eyes is crucial. As your family optometrist, we're here to help you through the season with personalized care and advice tailored to your needs and lifestyle.