Eye health expert warns of common mistake impacting a quarter of people in Belfast during allergy season

Cases of hay fever have trebled over the past two decades, now affecting over 26% of the population. Despite this, common symptoms such as sore, red, or watery eyes are frequently dismissed as fatigue, excessive screen time, or poor sleep.

According to experts at Optical Express, a growing number of people are developing allergies later in life, meaning many may not recognise the signs or seek appropriate treatment.

Dr Stephen Hannan, Clinical Services Director at Optical Express, said: “Many people associate irritated or tired eyes with long hours in front of screens, but allergies are a very common and increasingly overlooked cause.

When the eyes are exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust or pet dander, the body releases histamines as part of its immune response. 

This leads to inflammation, redness, itching and watering, all of which can significantly affect comfort and vision quality.

We’re also seeing more people develop allergies for the first time in adulthood. As a result, they may not immediately recognise what’s causing their symptoms.

The challenge is that allergy symptoms and digital eye strain often overlap. Reduced blinking during screen use disrupts the tear film, increasing dryness and irritation. This can exacerbate underlying allergy symptoms and make diagnosis less obvious.”

How to manage eye allergy symptoms

To mark Allergy Awareness Week, Dr Hannan shares practical steps to help reduce irritation and improve comfort:

1. Use lubricating eye drops

Lubricating (artificial tear) drops help wash away allergens and restore moisture to the eye’s surface. This is particularly beneficial where dryness from screen use is compounding symptoms.

2. Consider targeted anti-allergy treatments

Over the counter and prescription antihistamine eye drops, such as Olopatadine (commonly known by brands like Opatanol), can be highly effective in relieving itching, redness and swelling.

Oral antihistamines may also help control systemic allergy symptoms, although some can worsen dry eye, so combining them with lubricating drops is often recommended. 

3. Avoid contact lenses during flare-ups

Contact lenses can trap allergens like pollen and dust against the surface of the eye, prolonging irritation. Switching to glasses temporarily allows the eye to recover more quickly.

Wraparound sunglasses can also help reduce allergen exposure outdoors while providing UV protection.

4. Reduce exposure to allergens

Simple steps, such as keeping windows closed during high pollen counts, using anti-allergy bedding, and applying cold compresses, can significantly reduce symptoms.

Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can worsen inflammation and release more histamine.

Dr Hannan adds: “With allergies becoming more common, it’s important people don’t simply assume their symptoms are due to screen use or tiredness.

If your eyes are persistently irritated, itchy, or watery, particularly during peak allergyseasons, it’s worth considering allergies as a potential cause.

Effective treatments are widely available, and a simple consultation can help ensure you receive the right advice and avoid unnecessary discomfort.”

Allergies can cause concern to the general public, for example those that wear contact lenses as their vision correction option of choice.  

Optical Express is one of the UK’s leading providers of vision correction, performing more than 60% of premium self-pay procedures and holding more 5-star reviews on Trustpilot than any other provider in the sector.

For patients considering options such as LASIK, presbyopia-correcting lens replacement or private cataract surgery, Optical Express offers a comprehensive range of treatments supported by extensive clinical expertise and high levels of patient satisfaction.

For more information or to book an eye health consultation, visit https://www.opticalexpress.co.uk/book-a-free-consultation.