Itchy, Watery Eyes: The Top Solutions for Allergy-Related Eye Discomfort

If your eyes start to itch and water as the seasons change, you are not alone. Spring and fall in Northern Nevada bring more than just beautiful weather, they also bring an increase in pollen and other allergens that can trigger uncomfortable eye symptoms. Allergy-related eye issues, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, are common and can make daily life frustrating.
 

Why Your Eyes React to Allergies

Your immune system is designed to protect you, but sometimes it goes into overdrive. When allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust come into contact with the surface of your eye, your immune cells, particularly mast cells, react by releasing histamines. These histamines are responsible for that familiar itching, redness, watering, and sticky discharge that many people experience during allergy season.
 

This reaction affects the conjunctiva and triggers symptoms that are uncomfortable but not harmful to your vision. Although it may feel like something more serious, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and does not require antibiotics.
 

What We Look for During an Eye Exam

When you come in for an eye exam with symptoms of redness and itching, we check for small bumps inside the eyelids called papillae. Their presence helps confirm that the issue is allergy-related rather than a bacterial or viral infection. Allergic conjunctivitis is the most common cause of red eye in the United States, and does not benefit from antibiotic drops. Using antibiotics unnecessarily may cause more harm than good.
 

Effective Treatments for Ocular Allergies

There are several ways to manage allergy-related eye symptoms. The most effective option is using dual-action eye drops that act as both antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers. These drops prevent the release of histamines and block their effects on the eye, which helps reduce and prevent symptoms. Some of the most recommended options are:

  • Pataday Extra Strength

  • Lastacaft
     

Both are available over-the-counter and are designed for once-daily use with minimal side effects. A brief stinging sensation or blurry vision right after use is normal and should go away quickly. The key to success with these drops is consistency - start using them daily at the beginning of allergy season and continue throughout. If you have pets, it is best to use them every day regardless of the season to stay ahead of symptoms.
 

Other At-Home Remedies to Try

In addition to prescription or over-the-counter drops, there are other supportive treatments that can bring relief:

  • Use a cool compress to soothe irritation

  • Take oral antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra, or Xyzal

  • Ibuprofen can help manage inflammation and discomfort

  • Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can make symptoms worse
     

We Are Here to Help

Allergy-related eye discomfort is common, especially during high pollen seasons in Northern Nevada. Though the symptoms are not dangerous, they can interfere with your quality of life. We can help you determine if you are experiencing allergic conjunctivitis or something else and recommend the right treatment.
 

If you’re experiencing itchy or watery eyes, contact Downtown Vision in Reno or Carson City to schedule an eye exam for relief you need to enjoy every season symptom-free. Call us at (775) 322-4061 or (775) 883-3977, our use this link, to book your appointment today.