Can Allergies Make Dry Eyes Worse?

Yes, allergies can make dry eyes feel much worse. If your eyes are often itchy, watery, or irritated during certain times of the year, allergies may be the reason. For people already dealing with dry eye, allergy season can add an extra layer of discomfort.

In this blog, we’ll explain how allergies and dry eye are linked, what symptoms to watch for, and how you can get relief.

Quick Summary

• Allergies can trigger or worsen dry eye symptoms

• Pollen, dust, and animal dander are common culprits

• Eye rubbing and overuse of antihistamines may increase dryness

• Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and watery eyes

• Treatments include lubricating drops, cold compresses, and dry eye care

• Speak to an optometrist to manage both conditions properly

How Allergies Affect the Eyes

Seasonal and environmental allergies are caused by your immune system reacting to harmless things like:

• Pollen (trees, grass, weeds)

• Dust mites

• Animal dander

• Mould spores

When exposed, your eyes may become red, itchy, and watery. These are signs of allergic conjunctivitis. But for those with dry eye, this allergic reaction can also reduce tear quality and worsen irritation.

Why Allergies Make Dry Eyes Worse

There are several reasons allergy flare-ups can trigger or intensify dry eye symptoms:

• Tear film disruption: Allergic inflammation reduces the stability of your tear film, causing tears to evaporate too quickly.

• Rubbing your eyes: This common response can damage the eye’s surface and lead to more dryness and irritation.

• Antihistamine use: Some allergy medications, especially oral antihistamines, can reduce tear production.

• Blocked oil glands: Allergic swelling can impact the meibomian glands, which help keep your tears from evaporating.

This combination of factors creates a cycle of discomfort that’s difficult to manage without help.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

If you suffer from both dry eyes and allergies, symptoms may overlap. Watch for:

• Itchy, red, or burning eyes

• Watery eyes that still feel dry

• Gritty or sandy sensation

• Blurry vision that comes and goes

• Light sensitivity

• Eyelid swelling or puffiness

It’s not uncommon to have both allergic conjunctivitis and dry eye at the same time. Knowing the difference is key to choosing the right treatment.

lady itching her dry eyes

How to Manage Allergy-Related Dry Eye

Here are a few ways to reduce symptoms and protect your eyes:

1. Use Lubricating Eye Drops

Preservative-free artificial tears can help flush out allergens and keep your eyes hydrated. Look for drops made specifically for dry or allergy-prone eyes.

2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

Although tempting, rubbing makes inflammation worse. Try a cold compress instead to soothe itching.

3. Wear Sunglasses Outside

Sunglasses help block pollen, wind, and UV rays from irritating your eyes further.

4. Reduce Allergen Exposure

• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons

• Use air purifiers indoors

• Wash your face and hands after being outside

• Avoid touching your eyes

5. Speak to Your Optometrist

At E Eye Place, we’ll assess whether allergies or other factors are contributing to your dry eye and recommend targeted treatment. This might include prescription eye drops, in-practice treatments, or a personalised dry eye care plan.

Explore our dry eye treatments →

When to See an Optometrist

If your symptoms last longer than a week or get worse with over-the-counter remedies, it’s time to book an appointment. We’ll look at your tear film, eyelid health, and allergy history to get to the root cause.

You don’t need to suffer through another allergy season with uncomfortable eyes. There are safe, effective treatments that can help.

Book an eye test in Shelley or Port Coogee today →

Final Thoughts

Allergies and dry eye are a common but frustrating combination. With the right advice and ongoing care, you can minimise flare-ups and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision year-round.