Understanding Spring Eye Allergies: Symptoms, Types, and Vision Impacts

As spring blooms, so do seasonal allergies — unfortunately, your eyes may be among the first to notice. From itching and redness to blurry vision and light sensitivity, spring eye allergies can be more than just a nuisance. For many, it’s not always clear how serious these allergies can be or if symptoms like blurry vision or one-eye irritation are signs of something more.  

Below, our Conroe eye care team at Line Optical clears up some of the most common questions surrounding spring eye allergies and what you should watch out for. 

Is Hay Fever Contagious? 

One of the most frequent misconceptions is that hay fever, also called allergic rhinitis, is contagious. The truth is that hay fever is not contagious at all. It is an allergic reaction, not an infection. Unlike colds or the flu, which are caused by viruses and can spread from person to person, hay fever results from your immune system reacting to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. So, while it may cause similar symptoms like sneezing and runny nose, rest assured, you can't catch hay fever from someone else. 

Types of Eye Allergies 

Several types of eye allergies can affect people during spring, each with its own triggers and symptoms: 

• Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis (SAC): The most common type, triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Symptoms include red, itchy, watery eyes. 
• Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis (PAC): Occurs year-round due to indoor allergens like pet dander and dust mites. 
• Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis: A more severe, chronic form seen in children and young adults, often with thick mucus discharge. 
• Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): Often caused by contact lens wear or eye prosthetics, leading to irritation and discharge. 

Identifying the correct type of eye allergy is key to managing symptoms and avoiding complications. 

Can Allergies Affect Your Vision?

Yes — allergies can affect your vision. While typically mild, symptoms like excessive tearing, swelling, or irritation can cause temporary blurry vision or difficulty focusing. Inflammation on the surface of the eye can interfere with how light enters, leading to visual distortion. Eye rubbing, a common response to allergy itchiness, can also worsen symptoms and even impact corneal health over time. 

Can Allergies Affect Only One Eye?

While allergies usually affect both eyes symmetrically, it is possible for only one eye to be affected — especially in cases where the allergen contacts one eye more directly (e.g., touching one eye with pollen-covered fingers). However, if symptoms persist in only one eye, it’s worth ruling out other conditions such as infections or foreign objects. 

When to See an Eye Care Professional

If your symptoms are severe, prolonged, or affecting your vision significantly, it's important to seek professional care. Prescription allergy treatments or custom-tailored eye drops may be necessary for relief. Persistent blurry vision or symptoms in only one eye should always be evaluated to rule out more serious issues. 

Understanding the nuances of spring eye allergies helps you stay comfortable and protect your vision during allergy season. 

To learn more about eye allergies and what we can do to help, make an eye care appointment to see our eye care team today.