Understanding Eye Allergies

Why do Eyes Itch from Allergens?

Eye allergies occur when your body overreacts to foreign substances called allergens. The immune system begins making antibodies that cause your eyes to release histamine, causing inflammation and itching.

Let’s focus on the causes, signs and symptoms of your eye allergies so you can take steps to finding relief.

Why do Eyes Itch from Allergens?

Let’s focus on the causes, signs and symptoms of your eye allergies so you can take steps to finding relief.

Allergens You Should Know

Allergens are everywhere and can be more or less prevalent based on different seasons of the year.

Pollen

Encountered Outdoors Seasonally

As plants grow and flowers bloom, they release a powdery substance called pollen which can travel for miles on breezy days. Pollen counts vary by season and plant types in various locations. Use our pollen forecast tool to see the effects in your area.

Grass

Encountered Outdoors Seasonally

Pollens in grass are lightweight and spread easily through the air, especially after yard work. While grass pollens are typically at their highest during late spring, they can continue to be an issue through the summer and fall. Use our pollen forecast tool to monitor intensity in your area.

Ragweed

Encountered Outdoors Throughout Late Summer and Early Fall

The pollen of a ragweed is so small and light it is almost impossible to avoid. Found everywhere in the U.S., Ragweed pollen is a major cause of seasonal allergies including hay fever. Use our pollen forecast tool to see if ragweed is impacting your area.

Pet Dander

Encountered Indoors Year-Round

Proteins in the dead skin cells of pets are a leading cause of pet-related eye allergies, especially in cold winter months when pets are indoors longer than usual.