Understanding the Connection Between Allergies and Dry Eye Syndrome

A close-up shot of a woman's red eye caused by allergies or dry eye syndrome Allergies and dry eye syndrome are common issues that affect many people nationwide. If you have eye pain, itchiness, redness, or other symptoms, you may be wondering if dry eye syndrome or allergies are to blame.

Discover the similarities and differences between eye allergies and dry eye below. This information can help you seek appropriate care and choose the best treatment option.

The Difference Between Allergy and Dry Eye Syndrome

Allergies and dry eye syndrome differ in several ways, including causes, symptoms, triggers, and treatments.

Cause

Allergies are an immune system response to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mold. The body releases histamines, leading to inflammation and irritation in the eyes.

Dry eye syndrome results from insufficient tear production or poor-quality tears that fail to lubricate the eyes properly. This condition can be caused by aging, environmental factors, medications, or medical conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome.

Symptoms

Common allergy symptoms include:

  • Itchy eyes (a hallmark symptom)
  • Redness and swelling in the eyes
  • Excessive tearing
  • Sneezing or nasal congestion (commonly co-occurs with eye symptoms)

Conversely, dry eye syndrome is often characterized by:

  • Grittiness or a sensation of sand in the eyes
  • Stinging or burning in the eyes
  • Fluctuating blurry vision
  • Excessive tearing (as a reflex to dryness)
  • Eye fatigue or discomfort after prolonged screen time or reading

Triggers

Allergy symptoms are typically seasonal (spring and fall for pollen allergies) or situational (e.g., exposure to pet dander or dust).

Dry eye syndrome symptoms may worsen in dry or windy environments, after prolonged screen use, or in air-conditioned spaces.

Treatment

Some of the most well-known allergy treatment options include:

  • Antihistamine eye drops or oral medications
  • Avoidance of allergens
  • Artificial tears for temporary relief from irritation
  • Cold compresses to reduce swelling and redness

Dry eye syndrome requires a different approach. Treatment may involve:

  • Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops for consistent moisture
  • Prescription eye drops
  • Lifestyle changes, such as using humidifiers and taking breaks from screens
  • Punctal plugs or advanced therapies for severe cases

Schedule a Dry Eye Syndrome Consultation in Amarillo, TX

Do you suspect that dry eye syndrome is the cause of your symptoms? Contact Dr. Murrell at 806-351-1177 to arrange a consultation.

Dr. Murrell offers treatments to provide long-lasting relief and clear, comfortable vision. Get in touch today!

Contact Us For All Your Health Related Queries!

Panhandle Eye Group Subspecialists

7411 Wallace Blvd
Amarillo, TX 79106

Amarillo Cataract & Eye Surgery Center

7310 Fleming Ave
Amarillo, TX 79106

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This is the latest IOL for Dr. Murrell's cataract practice. The LAL is the first IOL that can be adjusted after the surgery. Dr. Murrell can customize your IOL so that you can have the vision that you desire.

The LAL is a premium IOL which will not be covered under your medical insurance hence will have to pay for this IOL.

 

What's coming to Dr. Murrell's practice in the next few months.
Embrace with Accutite and Facetite and Morpheus Prime and Morpheus8

Accutite and Facetite: - These are FDA approved cosmetic devices that can melt fat and mildly tighten skin. It requires only a small opening in the skin. The Accutite is for small areas such as the upper and lower eyelids. The Facetite is for the larger areas of the face such as the jowls, neck, and nasolabial folds.

Morpheus Prime and Morpheus 8 - These are FDA approved cosmetic devices that are applied to the skin to tighten the skin and collagen underneath the skin. The Morpheus Prime is for smaller areas smaller areas such as the upper and lower eyelids. the Morpheus8 is for the larger areas of the face. Both Morpheus Prime and Morpheus 8 takes 3 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart from each other.

The Accutite and Morpheus Prime can both be performed to the eyelids to maximize the cosmetic effect. Likewise, the Facetite and Morpheus8 can both be performed to maximize the cosmetic effect.

The Embrace is the device that rungs the Accutite, Facetite, Morpheus8, and Morpheus Prime. These treatments are not covered by insurance. The patient will have to pay for the procedure.

What's New in Dr. Murrell Practice in 2023

Light adjustable IOl (LAL) for Cataract Patients

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