Dry Eye

Spring in San Luis Obispo County is beautiful—but for many, it’s also the season of itchy, watery, irritated eyes. With blooming flowers comes airborne pollen, making eye allergies a common concern across communities like Paso Robles, Santa Maria, and Pismo Beach.

If you’re suffering from seasonal eye allergies, you’re not alone. At Pacific Eye Surgeons, our team of eye care professionals is here to help residents throughout the Central Coast find relief.

What Causes Eye Allergies in Spring?

Eye allergies—also known as allergic conjunctivitis—are triggered when allergens like pollen, dust, or mold come into contact with your eyes. In areas like San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, and Nipomo, springtime pollen counts rise, increasing irritation for allergy-prone individuals.

Common Allergens in SLO County:

  • Pollen from oak, cypress, and grass
  • Dust mites and mold spores
  • Pet dander (even more irritating indoors during spring cleaning)

Symptoms of Eye Allergies vs. Dry Eye Syndrome

People often confuse eye allergies with chronic dry eye syndrome, but they have different causes and treatments.

Eye Allergy Symptoms:

  • Itchy, red, watery eyes
  • Puffy eyelids
  • Burning sensation
  • Sensitivity to light

Dry Eye Symptoms:

  • Gritty, sandy feeling in eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Excessive tearing (reflex tears)
  • Eye fatigue

If you’re unsure whether it’s allergies or dry eye syndrome, it’s best to consult a local dry eye specialist in Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo.

How to Relieve Itchy and Irritated Eyes This Spring

1. Avoid the Allergens

  • Stay indoors when pollen counts are high (early morning and windy days)
  • Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
  • Wash hands and face after outdoor activities
  • Keep windows closed at home and in your car

2. Use Artificial Tears

  • Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops help rinse allergens from your eyes
  • Look for preservative-free options for daily use

3. Apply Cold Compresses

  • Reduces inflammation and soothes irritation
  • Use a clean, damp cloth placed gently over closed eyelids

4. Try Antihistamine Eye Drops

  • Helps block histamines that cause itching
  • Ask your eye doctor before using medicated drops long-term

5. Book an Eye Exam

  • A comprehensive eye exam in San Luis Obispo or Paso Robles can pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and recommend personalized treatment

When to See a Dry Eye Specialist

If your symptoms persist despite avoiding allergens or using eye drops, you might be dealing with chronic dry eye—a condition we treat regularly at our dry eye clinics in Santa Maria, Paso Robles, and San Luis Obispo.

You should see an eye specialist if:

  • Your eyes feel constantly dry or irritated
  • Over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping
  • Your vision is frequently blurry
  • You wear contact lenses and experience discomfort

Schedule a consultation with Pacific Eye Surgeons for a same-day eye exam in San Luis Obispo or nearby locations.

Local Relief is Closer Than You Think

Pacific Eye Surgeons serves the Central Coast with experienced eye doctors who provide both general eye care and specialized dry eye treatment. Our locations include:

  • Paso Robles: Serving Templeton, Atascadero, and Cambria
  • Santa Maria: Serving Nipomo, Orcutt, and Guadalupe
  • San Luis Obispo: Serving Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and Arroyo Grande

You don’t have to suffer through another allergy season. Let us help you see clearly and comfortably.

FAQs About Spring Eye Allergies

Yes, especially when your eyes are watery or irritated. It may also indicate dry eye syndrome.

Eye infections typically involve discharge and pain. Allergies usually cause itching without discharge.

Most over-the-counter drops are safe for short-term use. For long-term relief, consult a dry eye doctor in San Luis Obispo.

Yes, your optometrist or allergist can perform tests to identify specific allergens.

Yes, but if symptoms continue, it may be chronic dry eye. Our eye clinics in Paso Robles and Santa Maria can help diagnose and treat it.

Relief is just a phone call away. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal allergies or suspect something more chronic, Pacific Eye Surgeons is here for you.

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