Managing Dry Eyes in the Spring

Dry eye is one of the most common conditions that affect people during the spring season. If you are wondering why symptoms of this condition are affecting you during this season, part of the answer may be seasonal allergies. 

Did you know that some symptoms of dry eye syndrome reach their peak in the spring? Interestingly, symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis tend to peak during spring as well. According to studies, environmental causes have a huge effect on symptoms of seasonal allergies and dry eye. 

What Is Dry Eye?

This is an eye condition whereby one does not have adequate eye lubrication. It may stem from your body’s inability to produce enough tears or as a result of producing poor-quality tears. The result, in any case, is the same. Your tears will be unable to properly lubricate your eyes. 

Shared Properties Between Seasonal Allergies and Dry Eye

According to some studies, dry eye symptoms reach their peak around April and May. This is when pollen counts are at their highest. Many people who seek treatment for symptoms related to this condition do so during these two months. This suggests that allergens during spring can exacerbate the symptoms of dry eye.

Do Your Symptoms Stem From Dry Eye or Eye Allergies?

The only way to find out the answer to this question is to go for an eye examination. Your eye doctor will diagnose you and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your condition. It is especially important to investigate and seek medical advice if your symptoms are persistent. 

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

You will experience symptoms of this condition when your tears cannot provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. Your tears may be unstable, low-quality, or inadequate for several reasons. This tear instability or inadequacy can lead to damage and/or inflammation of the surface of your eyes. 

It will cause you to feel quite uncomfortable. Your eyes may also burn or sting. Other common symptoms may include:
 

• Eye fatigue or blurred vision.
• A scratchy, burning, or stinging sensation in your eyes.
• Watery eyes, which is a sign of your body’s response to your eye irritation.
• Stringy mucus around and in your eyes.
• Having a difficult time driving at night.
• Increased light sensitivity.
• Feeling like you have an object in your eyes.
• Abnormally red eyes. 

How to Manage Dry Eyes in the Spring

Depending on your specific problem and the intensity of your symptoms, your eye doctor will recommend specific solutions. For example, he or she may prescribe lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to alleviate the pain. Certain eye medications may also stimulate your eye’s natural tear production, which will help provide some comfort by moisturizing your eyes. 

Certain steroids and prescription eye drops can produce similar results for people with severe forms of dry eyes. Punctual plugs are another effective solution. They are tiny devices inserted by your eye doctor inside your tear ducts. They block tears from draining out. Thus, they remain in your eyes and coat/moisturize the area.

To learn more about managing dry eyes in the spring, visit Reed Optical at our offices in Claremont or Sunapee, New Hampshire. You can also call (603)543-3125 or (603)763-7302 today to schedule an appointment.