Seasonal Allergies and Dry Eyes: Causes, Stats, and Tips to Manage Indoor Allergens

The onset of spring brings blooming flowers and trees - and seasonal allergy flare-ups for over 50 million Americans. Allergy symptoms like sneezing, Runny nose, and watery eyes are nuisance enough. But research also suggests connections between allergies and dry eye disease, which affects nearly 30 million Americans.

 

What causes this link between seasonal allergies and dry, irritated eyes? Below we cover some suspected factors, statistics on dry eye disease prevalence, and tips to minimize indoor allergens that could worsen ocular discomfort.

 

Common Causes of Allergy-Induced Dry Eye Symptoms

 

Experts theorize seasonal allergies impact dry eye symptoms in a few key ways:

 

- Increased inflammation - Allergic reactions trigger inflammation throughout the body, including the eyes and surrounding tissues. This can exacerbate dryness and irritation.

 

- Rubbing eyes - Itchy eyes prompt much eye rubbing during allergy season. This abrasion dries eyes out more. 

 

- Medications - Some allergy meds like antihistamines have drying side effects. Always check labels carefully and consult an allergist.

 

Research indicates dry eye symptoms seem to spike at certain times of year for those prone to allergies. So careful allergen management is key for reducing exposure.

 

How Many Struggle With Dry Eye Disease?

 

Dry eye disease impacts a staggering number of Americans each year:

 

- 29.9 million women

 

- 9.81 million men

 

It remains one of the most common reasons for appointments with eye doctors. Symptoms range from temporary irritation to chronic severe cases causing eye damage or vision impairment if left un-managed.

 

Tips For Minimizing Indoor Allergens 

 

While pollen looms large each spring, indoor allergens also play a significant role in ocular and nasal discomfort for allergy sufferers. Try these simple practices to clear the air in your home:

 

- Vacuum carpets/mop floors 2x per week using a HEPA filter model

- Wash bedding weekly in hot water to kill dust mites 

- Limit clutter like piles of newspapers that collect dust

- Switch HVAC air filter monthly 

- Run kitchen/bath exhaust fans when cooking or bathing

- Limit outdoor foot traffic and wipe paws after walks

 

By minimizing everyday indoor allergens with simple routine cleaning, you can help decrease overall inflammation. And keeping symptoms like itchy eyes and sneezing fits in check will reduce risk of further irritating dry, sensitive eyes.

 

No matter what preventative steps you take, some seasonal allergy irritation may still occur. Be sure to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor or allergist if symptoms become severe or don't subside after 2 weeks. They can check for any eye abnormalities and help you explore if additional treatments are needed for relief.

 

Stay tuned for more eye health tips related to allergy season in the coming months!