Seasonal Allergies, Blepharitis & Dry Eyes

Together, seasonal allergies, blepharitis and dryness can make for some very unhappy eyes.

Blepharitis (pronounced blef-uh-RYE-tis) is a chronic condition that causes the eyelids to become swollen, irritated and sometimes itchy. It can also contribute to dry eyes. You may notice flakes at the base of the eyelids or on eyelashes. People with blepharitis sometimes wake with their eyelids stuck together. Others may wake with dried tears around their eyes and a feeling of sand in their eyes. Good, daily eye hygiene is essential to keeping blepharitis in check. Eyelid cleansing products like OCuSOFT Lid Scrub pads or Avenova spray can be helpful. If the condition worsens or is affecting your vision, see your eye specialist for next steps. Sometimes, in severe cases, a medicated ointment will be prescribed. Dry eyes can benefit from hydrating eye drops and warm compresses to help open the meibomian glands, improve oil gland flow and stabilize the tear film.

Seasonal allergies can affect blepharitis and dry eyes symptoms, causing the eyes to feel worse. If you are on a regimen of antihistamines, nasal sprays or other prescribed allergy medications, be sure to stay ahead of days with high pollen. Check the weather for the daily pollen outlook and be prepared. Mornings typically have lower pollen counts. It can be helpful to wear a neck gaiter or “buff” during your daily walks outdoors. While these won’t be as effective as an N-95 mask, they will help minimize pollen in your nose and mouth.

The Medical Center’s Visiting Specialist Program offers excellent, on-site eye care by Bascom Palmer Eye Institute’s Retinal Specialist Zach Segal, M.D. Visit his page to make an appointment.

Don’t forget to sign up to participate in the 44th-annual “Fun-Raiser” Fun-Run and other related events coming up next week! Visit the Fun-Raiser page for more details and to register online. Our annual Raffle is back too, so don’t forget to click on the button on the Fun-Raiser page and enter for a chance to take home some of the fun!