The Link Between Allergic Conjunctivitis and Dry Eye Syndrome

If your eyes are constantly red, itchy, or irritated, you might assume it’s just allergies—but what if it’s actually dry eye syndrome? Or could it be both? Allergic conjunctivitis and dry eye syndrome often overlap, making it tricky to tell them apart. Let’s explore how these conditions are connected and how to manage them effectively.

How Are Allergic Conjunctivitis and Dry Eye Syndrome Related?

• Chronic Eye Irritation: Both conditions cause eye redness, burning, and discomfort.
• Inflammation Overlap: Allergies trigger inflammation, which can disrupt tear production and worsen dry eye symptoms.
• Frequent Eye Rubbing: Allergy sufferers often rub their eyes, leading to more irritation and tear film instability.
• Medication Side Effects: Antihistamines used for allergies can dry out the eyes, worsening dry eye syndrome.
• Environmental Triggers: Pollen, wind, air pollution, and indoor allergens can aggravate both conditions.

Key Differences Between Allergic Conjunctivitis and Dry Eye Syndrome

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Manage Both Conditions

If you have symptoms of both allergic conjunctivitis and dry eye, a combined approach can help:

• Use Artificial Tears: Preservative-free lubricating drops can relieve dryness and irritation.
• Apply Cold Compresses: Helps soothe itchy, inflamed eyes caused by allergies.
• Try Antihistamine Eye Drops: These can reduce allergy symptoms without drying out the eyes as much as oral antihistamines.
• Limit Screen Time: Reducing eye strain helps prevent worsening dry eye symptoms.
• Use a HEPA Air Purifier: Reduces indoor allergens that can trigger eye irritation.
• Blink More Often: Especially when using digital devices, to maintain tear film stability.

FAQ: Common Questions About Eye Allergies and Dry Eye

Q: Can allergies cause long-term dry eye syndrome?
A: Chronic allergic inflammation may disrupt tear production over time, increasing dry eye risk.

Q: What type of eye drops should I use if I have both conditions?
A: Look for preservative-free artificial tears and antihistamine eye drops specifically designed for allergy relief.

Q: Can contact lenses make both conditions worse?
A: Yes! Contacts can trap allergens and reduce oxygen to the eye, making dry eye and allergies more uncomfortable.

A Personal Story

One of my patients, Sarah, was convinced she had only allergies, but her symptoms persisted even outside allergy season. After testing, we found she also had dry eye syndrome. With a mix of lubricating drops and allergy treatments, her eye discomfort finally improved!

If your eye symptoms aren’t improving with allergy treatments alone, dry eye syndrome may be playing a role. Talk to your doctor about a tailored approach to relieve both conditions and keep your eyes comfortable year-round.

What are you waiting for?  If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!

Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now!  Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!

Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.

Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies.  Buy it NOW!

Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.