Fall Allergies & Dry Eyes: When It’s More Than Just the Weather
As the weather cools and the leaves begin to fall, East Tennesseans know what comes next—allergy season. While many associate fall allergies with sneezing or congestion, they can also take a toll on your eyes.
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, our Powell eye care specialists often see patients who mistake allergy-related irritation for simple dryness. In reality, fall’s mix of ragweed pollen, dry air, and indoor heating can create a perfect storm for itchy, watery, or burning eyes.
Here’s how to tell what’s really going on—and what you can do to find relief.
Why Your Eyes Suffer During Fall
Fall in Tennessee means fluctuating temperatures, lower humidity, and lingering pollen from ragweed and mold spores. These allergens don’t just affect your sinuses—they also impact the delicate tissues of your eyes, leading to inflammation and irritation.
Meanwhile, cooler weather brings indoor heating and reduced moisture in the air, which further dries out your eyes. The combination of allergies and dryness can leave your eyes feeling gritty and tired.
Fall Allergies vs. Dry Eye: What’s the Difference?
It can be hard to tell the difference between eye allergies and dry eye disease because symptoms often overlap. However, there are a few key distinctions:
| Symptom | Eye Allergies | Dry Eye |
| Itching | Common and intense | Mild to moderate |
| Redness | Often bright red | More diffuse or dull |
| Tearing | Excessive watery discharge | Can be watery or minimal |
| Mucus | May appear stringy | Typically absent |
| Response to Antihistamines | Improves symptoms | May worsen dryness |
Many patients have both conditions—meaning treating one alone may not solve the problem.
How Fall Allergies Make Dry Eye Worse
Allergic reactions trigger inflammation that disrupts your tear film, making tears evaporate faster. Add in dry autumn air, and your eyes lose moisture more quickly. If you wear contact lenses, you may notice extra irritation or blurred vision this time of year.
For LASIK patients or those prone to dryness, allergy season can feel especially uncomfortable without proper treatment.
Simple Ways to Protect Your Eyes This Season
- Use Artificial Tears Regularly: Lubricating drops can soothe irritation and flush out allergens.
- Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: It only worsens inflammation and discomfort.
- Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: Shields your eyes from wind, pollen, and debris.
- Keep Indoor Air Clean: Use HEPA filters and humidifiers to balance moisture and reduce allergens.
- Wash Bedding & Curtains Often: Ragweed pollen can cling to fabrics.
- Remove Contacts When Symptoms Flare: Give your eyes a break or switch to daily disposables.
When to See an Eye Doctor in Powell
If your eyes remain red, irritated, or watery despite over-the-counter drops or allergy meds, it may be time to visit an eye specialist. Chronic symptoms could indicate dry eye disease, meibomian gland dysfunction, or allergic conjunctivitis—conditions that require professional treatment.
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, our Powell office offers advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and personalized treatment options, including:
- Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops
- In-office treatments for meibomian gland health
- Allergy management strategies tailored to your needs
Clearer, More Comfortable Vision for Fall
Don’t let fall allergies blur your view of East Tennessee’s beautiful season. With expert care from our Powell eye doctors, you can reduce irritation, control dryness, and enjoy crisp autumn days—without the discomfort.