Summer Eye Allergy or Infection?

Have you ever experienced itchy, burning, red eyes? Sometimes, we chalk up the symptoms above to eye allergies. Spring is not the only season for eye allergies. Common culprits, such as pollen from grass, trees, and weeds, can cause problems in the summer and even into the fall. 
​
However, eye infections can also cause similar symptoms. 

Depending on the type of eye infection you may have, you do not want to ignore symptoms. But how can you tell the difference? 
​
The article below covers symptoms of summer eye allergies and eye infections and how to tell the difference. 

What are summer eye allergies?

Summer eye allergies can occur after exposure to common triggers. The body’s immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance as if it were dangerous, releasing histamines as a response. Typical eye allergy symptoms follow.

Symptoms of eye allergies may include: 

• Itchy eyes
• Redness
• Burning 
• Watery eyes 

​

What are eye infections? 

Eye infections can occur due to a virus, fungi, or bacteria that enters the eye. One or both eyes can become affected. Eye infections can range from mild to those that threaten vision. 

Eye infections are quite common. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about one million people seek medical treatment for eye infections in the United States each year. 

Common types of eye infections include: 

• Conjunctivitis 
• Sty
• Blepharitis 
• Uveitis

The exact symptoms of an eye infection may vary depending on the part of the eye infected. Typical symptoms include: 

• Redness
• Pain 
• Discharge from the eye
• Itching 

​

How to tell the difference between summer eye allergies and an eye infection 

It is important to differentiate between an eye infection and common eye allergies. Left untreated, some eye infections can become worse and lead to complications. 

One way to tell the difference is with the presence of discharge from the eyes. Eye allergies can lead to watery eyes, but the discharge from an eye infection differs. For instance, a bacterial infection can lead to thick discharge from the eyes. A viral infection can cause mucus-like discharge from the eyes.

Eye pain is also another symptom of an eye infection that does not usually occur with eye allergies. Pain may include a gritty feeling in the eye. 

In some cases, an eye infection also causes sensitivity to light. While eye allergies usually do not. 
​

Treatment for eye allergies

Getting an accurate diagnosis is important to ensure your treatment is appropriate. 

Some of the treatments for eye allergies and eye infections are the same. However, treatments may differ to address the underlying cause of symptoms. 

Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears keep the eyes moist, helping reduce dryness and irritation. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, preservative-free artificial tears can be used up to six times a day. 

Antihistamines: Antihistamines can block the release of histamine and can prevent eye allergy symptoms from starting.

Reduce triggers: Although it may be easier said than done, try to reduce exposure to triggers, such as pollen. Consider wearing sunglasses and washing your face as soon as coming in from outdoors.

​Treatment for eye infections

Treatment for eye infections may depend on the cause of the infection. For instance, treatment for a viral eye infection usually does not include antibiotics. Treatment for an eye infection may include: 

Anti-infective medication: Bacterial eye infections may require antibiotics, either oral or in the form of eye drops. Fungal eye infections often require antifungal medication. 

Over-the-counter pain relievers: If eye pain develops, over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen may help. 

Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the eye may help reduce irritation and does not typically cause adverse side effects. 

It is best to see an eye doctor if you are unsure whether eye symptoms are due to an infection or allergies. If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.