Is it the Texas heat, or are allergies causing your burning eyes? Eye allergies are extremely common this time of the year, and they don’t always show up the way you’d expect. Many patients come in thinking they have pink eye or an infection, when in reality, they’re reacting to allergens in the air or at home.
At Aspire Vision Care, we’re dedicated to helping patients in Round Rock navigate allergy season with treatments that actually work — including professional guidance and the right allergy eye drops for your symptoms. Let’s unpack what’s causing your symptoms, what you can do at home, and when it's time to see your optometrist.
What Are Eye Allergies and Why Do They Burn?
Eye allergies — medically referred to as allergic conjunctivitis — occur when your immune system overreacts to a trigger, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. These allergens can cause your eyes to release histamines, which leads to inflammation and irritation.
Common eye allergy symptoms include:
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Watery or teary eyes
- Redness
- Itching (sometimes severe)
- Swollen or puffy eyelids
- Blurred vision
In Round Rock, seasonal allergies are often worse in the spring and fall, when cedar, ragweed, and oak pollen levels are at their highest. But thanks to our climate — dry air, wind, and year-round allergens — symptoms can persist even in winter.
Is It Allergies or Pink Eye?
This is one of the most common questions we get, and it’s an important one. While both conditions can cause red, uncomfortable eyes, there are a few key differences that can help you tell them apart.
- Eye allergies typically cause itching in both eyes, along with watery discharge, puffiness, and sometimes nasal congestion or sneezing. The discharge is usually clear and thin, and the eyes often feel itchy more than painful. These symptoms aren’t contagious and often get worse outdoors or during certain times of the year.
- Pink eye, on the other hand, is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. It often starts in one eye and spreads to the other, producing thicker yellow or green discharge. You might also notice crusting around the eyelids, increased light sensitivity, or even mild fever — and it is contagious.
What Causes Eye Allergies?
Eye allergies occur when your eyes react to substances that your immune system mistakenly identifies as harmful. These substances — called allergens — trigger the release of histamines, which cause inflammation, itching, and burning in and around the eyes.
Common Causes of Eye Allergies in Round Rock:
- Pollen: Cedar, oak, and ragweed pollen are some of the biggest culprits in Central Texas, especially during spring and fall.
- Dust Mites: These microscopic creatures thrive in warm, humid environments like bedding, carpets, and upholstery.
- Pet Dander: Proteins found in the skin flakes, saliva, and urine of pets can trigger allergic responses.
- Mold: Indoor and outdoor mold spores can irritate the eyes, particularly in humid or poorly ventilated areas.
- Smoke and Pollution: These airborne irritants can make symptoms worse, especially in high-traffic or industrial areas.
- Contact Lens Irritants: Protein buildup on lenses, or reactions to cleaning solutions, can also mimic or intensify allergy symptoms.
How Allergies Affect the Eyes: 4 Key Impacts
The effects of allergies on your eyes go beyond simple discomfort. In some cases, ignoring symptoms can make things worse. Here are four ways eye allergies can affect your vision and quality of life:
1. Chronic Inflammation
Ongoing allergic reactions can lead to persistent redness and sensitivity, making your eyes more vulnerable to dryness and irritation.
2. Tear Film Instability
Allergic reactions can disrupt the natural tear layer, triggering dry eye—a condition already common in screen-heavy lifestyles.
3. Blurred Vision
Constant eye rubbing (a common response to itching) can temporarily distort your vision and increase the risk of infections or corneal damage.
4. Reduced Productivity
Whether at work, in class, or on the road, irritated eyes can cause distraction, fatigue, and decreased performance.
Home Treatments for Burning, Allergy-Irritated Eyes
If you’re experiencing allergy-related eye issues, there are several steps you can take at home to alleviate symptoms and prevent flare-ups. These aren’t one-size-fits-all solutions — what works well for someone with mild seasonal allergies might not be enough for someone dealing with chronic dry eye and environmental triggers. That said, these strategies are often helpful:
- Use Allergy Eye Drops Wisely: Over-the-counter eye drops can offer fast, short-term relief — especially those with antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers. Prescription-strength options are available if OTC drops aren’t doing the trick.
- Sometimes it’s not about medicating: It’s about flushing out the irritants. Using preservative-free lubricating eye drops can help clear allergens from the surface of your eye and restore moisture to dry, irritated eyes.
- Apply a Cool Compress: Soothing your eyes with a clean, damp, cold washcloth can relieve swelling, burning, and puffiness. It’s especially effective after a day outside or during high-pollen months.
- Clean Your Environment: Allergens often live in places you wouldn’t expect: pillows, rugs, curtains, and air vents. Not only should you wash your hands, but you should also regularly change air filters, and vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum can help cut down on allergens in your home.
- Limit Contact Lens Wear: Contacts can trap allergens against the eye’s surface. If your symptoms are flaring up, consider switching to glasses for a few days or talk to our eye doctors about daily disposable lenses.
- Stay Ahead of the Season: Check pollen forecasts and try to stay indoors when counts are high. Wearing sunglasses outdoors can also act as a physical barrier to airborne allergens.
When to See Our Eye Doctor About Eye Allergies in Round Rock
If your symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite using allergy eye drops, or start affecting your vision or daily activities, it’s time to see your optometrist.
At Aspire Vision Care, we can evaluate whether you’re dealing with eye allergies, dry eye, or something else entirely. More importantly, we offer personalized care plans based on your eye health, environment, and lifestyle — not just a generic treatment path. Book your eye care appointment to get real relief for your eye allergies.
Eye Allergies FAQs
What are the most effective allergy eye drops for burning eyes?
The best allergy eye drops often include antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers. Your optometrist can recommend an OTC or prescription version based on your specific symptoms.
Can eye allergies cause blurry vision?
Yes, especially if your eyes are watering excessively or you’ve been rubbing them. The effects of eye allergies can also worsen dry eye, which contributes to blurry or fluctuating vision.
How can I treat eye allergies at home?
Try cool compresses, preservative-free artificial tears, and reducing exposure to known allergens like pollen or pet dander. Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can make symptoms worse. These are great first steps for eye allergy treatment at home.