Clear Eyes This Spring: Solutions for Oak Season Allergies and Conjunctivitis

When spring rolls around after the cold and gray winter months, it feels magical. You finally get to spend more time outdoors soaking up the sun. However, if you have oak pollen allergies spring also brings relentless sneezing, congestion, and itchy, irritated eyes. Even those without allergies aren’t necessarily safe, as spring is also prime time for conjunctivitis (pink eye).

Conjunctivitis can be caused by allergens, bacteria, or viruses, and can leave your eyes red, swollen, and irritated. Both conditions make your eyes uncomfortable, teary, and sensitive to light, making to enjoy the season and spend time in nature.

If you’re struggling with red, itchy, or watery eyes this season, we’re here to help. At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA in San Antonio and Schertz, Texas, our lead allergist, Dr. Patricia Gomez-Dinger, specializes in allergy testing, immunotherapy, and other targeted treatments to keep your symptoms under control. 

Here, she walks you through what causes oak season allergies and conjunctivitis, how to tell them apart, and the best treatments to keep your eyes clear.

Why oak season triggers eye irritation

Oak pollen is one of the most aggressive allergens in spring, especially in Texas. Oak trees release a fine, powdery yellow pollen that spreads for miles. It sticks to everything, your car, your clothes, and unfortunately, your eyes. If you’re allergic to it, even a small amount can set off symptoms like:

• Itchy, red, or swollen eyes
• Excessive tearing
• A gritty sensation in your eyes
• Increased sensitivity to light

Avoiding oak pollen completely is nearly impossible, but you can limit your exposure by keeping windows closed, using air purifiers, and wearing sunglasses outdoors. If these basic tips don’t provide relief, allergy testing can help identify your triggers. 

At Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA, we offer comprehensive allergy testing and immunotherapy to help your body build tolerance over time, reducing symptoms in the long run.

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, isn’t always caused by allergies. There are three main types:

• Allergic conjunctivitis : Caused by allergens like pollen, pet dander, or mold. Symptoms include redness, itching, and excessive tearing but no thick discharge.
• Bacterial conjunctivitis: Results from bacterial infections and often produces thick, yellow, or green discharge. It spreads easily through contact and requires antibiotic treatment.
• Viral conjunctivitis:  Linked with colds and respiratory infections. It causes watery discharge and irritation but usually clears on its own.

Allergic conjunctivitis is more common in spring, but if you have eye pain, a fever, or thick discharge, you may have a bacterial or viral infection instead. The best way to know for sure? A proper evaluation. A proper evaluation at Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA can determine the cause of your symptoms.

Best treatments for for itchy, watery eyes

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are caused by pollen, allergy testing is the best first step. We use skin and blood tests to help you pinpoint your triggers. Next steps may include:

Immunotherapy

For people with severe allergies, immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) can help train your immune system to tolerate allergens. Immunotheraoy provides long term relief from most allergens including pollen.

Prescription and over-the-counter eye drops

Over-the-counter eye drops can provide quick relief, but choosing the right type is crucial. Antihistamine eye drops block allergic reactions, while mast cell stabilizers prevent future reactions. 

There are also lubricating drops to flush out allergens and soothe irritation. If these don’t provide enough relief, we can prescribe stronger anti-inflammatory or antihistamine eye drops to ease your symptoms more effectively.

Reduce pollen exposure

Since oak pollen is hard to avoid, small lifestyle changes can help. Keeping windows closed, using air conditioning, and installing HEPA air filters in your home can reduce indoor pollen levels. Showering and changing clothes after spending time outside can also help remove lingering allergens. Most importantly, avoid rubbing your eyes, it will only make irritation worse.

Proper treatment for conjunctivitis

If conjunctivitis is the problem, treatment depends on the cause. Bacterial infections require antibiotics, while viral infections usually clear up on their own. For allergic conjunctivitis, the key is reducing exposure to triggers and using antihistamines to calm the reaction.

You shouldn’t have to spend spring battling red, irritated eyes while everyone else is out enjoying the sunshine. Whether you’re struggling with oak pollen allergies or conjunctivitis, at Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA, we use allergy testing, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments o help you find lasting relief. Schedule an appointment with us online or call your nearest office today.