It's that time of year again when the pollen count is high and hayfever sufferers are reaching for their tissue boxes. But did you know that hayfever can also have an impact on your eyes? Learn more, and if you'd like to schedule an eye exam with our eye doctor, contact Visions Optique and Eyecare today!
How Hayfever May Be Affecting Your Eyes
Inflammation and Irritation
The symptoms of hayfever are caused by an allergic reaction to pollen, which can lead to inflammation and irritation of the eyes. This can cause a number of problems, including:
Itchy eyes
Red eyes
Watery eyes
Swollen eyelids
These symptoms can be extremely frustrating and can make it difficult to concentrate or carry out everyday tasks.
Dry Eyes
Another common symptom of hayfever is dry eyes. This is caused by the body's natural response to the inflammation, which is to produce more tears. However, these tears are often less effective at lubricating the eyes and can actually make the symptoms worse.
If you suffer from dry eyes, you may find that your eyes feel gritty or sandy and that they become red and irritated more easily. You may also notice that your vision is blurred or that you have difficulty wearing contact lenses.
Increased Light Sensitivity
Hayfever can also lead to increased light sensitivity, which can be extremely uncomfortable. This is because the inflammation and irritation caused by hayfever can make the eyes more sensitive to light.
If you find that your eyes are more sensitive to light than usual, you may want to try wearing sunglasses or limiting your time outside on bright days.
Eye Infections
If hayfever is not treated properly, it can lead to eye infections. This is because the inflammation and irritation caused by hayfever can make the eyes more vulnerable to infection.
Common eye infections that can be caused by hayfever include conjunctivitis and blepharitis. If you develop an eye infection, it is important to see your eye doctor so that they can prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Visit Our Eye Doctor
If you suffer from hayfever, it is important to see our eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam. During the exam, our optometrist will be able to diagnose your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment. If you would like to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor, please contact Visions Optique and Eyecare today.