Chronic dry eye illness and seasonal allergies have many of the same symptoms. In the spring, pollen allergies are a source of suffering. The incidence of dry eye illness coincidentally rises in the spring. Inhaling pollen and other seasonal allergens can cause dry eye disease or exacerbate already-present symptoms.
Even in the winter, exposure to the elements such as UV rays, snow and wind can aggravate already dry eyes. During the winter, harmful UV rays are still causing premature ageing of the eyes, which is why it is important to wear protective sunglasses when outdoors.
During the coldest season, dry eye problems are the most severe. Because of the heating systems we use in our homes and offices, the air is both drier outdoors and within. Heating systems and air conditioners wreak havoc on your eyes by dehydrating the air. Colds and flu are therefore also more common during the winter.
What is dry eye disease?
When your tears are not able to adequately lubricate your eyes, you develop dry eye disease, which is rather prevalent. The reasons tears are insufficient and unsteady are several. A lack of tears or tears of low quality might cause dry eyes, for example.
Dry eye can be a transient or a chronic problem. The term “chronic” refers to a condition that has persisted for a long period. Even if your symptoms improve or worsen, they will never be gone altogether. When your eyes are not able to produce enough tears, the chances are high that you will get chronic dry eye disease.
What is allergic conjunctivitis
This condition is known as an inflammation of the conjunctiva’s lining caused by an allergy. Pollen is a frequent cause of seasonal allergies, despite the fact that allergens differ. Eye redness, irritation, and excessive tears are common symptoms. Treating allergic rhinitis involves avoiding the allergen and taking antihistamines orally or topically.
Environmental irritants including pet dander and mould, in addition to pollen, contribute to seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. The vernal variant of the illness is distinguished by big papillae on the conjunctiva or limbus of the upper tarsal toe.
When allergy and dry eye coexist during all seasons
Spring means the temperatures are rising and there is more daylight, which also means more time spent outside. As a result, seasonal allergic conjunctivitis might worsen in the spring. However, while spring is commonly thought of as “allergy season,” many allergy sufferers continue to show symptoms far into the fall and winter, depending on where they live.
Treatment
Simple treatments like over-the-counter eye drops may provide comfort if you just have dry eye symptoms every now and then if your symptoms are minor. You can also ask your doctor or pharmacist for non-drowsy prescription antihistamines. A humidifier can aid in keeping the air inside your home or office, moist. You should also, practice excellent hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, to avoid being sick and needing to use cold medications.
When it is really cold and windy outside, stay indoors if you can. When you are out in the sun, wearing high-quality protective sunglasses can help protect your eyes and keep moisture in your eyes from evaporating. If you have not seen your doctor regarding dry eye problems previously, winter is an excellent time to do so while symptoms are at their worst.
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