Eye allergies are a frustrating yet common issue for many residents in Waterloo, Iowa. Whether you experience occasional irritation or persistent discomfort, eye allergies can impact your daily life and overall eye health. Understanding what causes these allergies and how to manage them is the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.

What Are Eye Allergies?

Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the eyes react to allergens—substances that the immune system identifies as harmful. When exposed to these triggers, your body releases histamines, causing symptoms like:

• Redness

• Itching

• Burning sensation

• Tearing

• Swollen eyelids

These reactions can range from mild to severe and may occur seasonally or year-round depending on the underlying cause.

What is the Most Common Eye Allergy?

In Waterloo, one of the most common eye allergies is caused by seasonal pollen, particularly during spring and fall. Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is abundant in this region and tends to spike during the warmer months, leading to increased allergic responses in sensitive individuals. These seasonal allergic conjunctivitis cases are especially prevalent during peak planting and harvest seasons. If you notice your symptoms flaring up during these times, pollen may be the culprit.

The Link Between Eye Allergies and Dry Eye

It’s not uncommon for individuals with eye allergies to also experience dry eye syndrome. Allergies can disrupt the tear film, leading to quicker evaporation and less lubrication. Conversely, chronic dry eye can make your eyes more sensitive to environmental irritants, creating a cycle of discomfort.

In some cases, overuse of antihistamine eye drops meant to relieve allergies may further dry out the eyes, compounding the problem. That’s why it’s essential to work with an optometrist to determine a treatment approach that addresses both conditions.

How ZEST Can Help

At NewView Family Eyecare, we offer a solution that can help manage both allergy-related and dry eye symptoms: ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment). ZEST is a gentle, in-office procedure that thoroughly cleans the eyelids and lashes, removing bacteria, debris, and allergens that may contribute to inflammation. This deep cleansing helps:

• Reduce allergy triggers on the eyelids

• Restore the health of the tear film

• Improve symptoms of both dry eye and allergic conjunctivitis

Many patients find that ZEST significantly reduces their symptoms and improves comfort, particularly during allergy season.

Schedule Your Consultation with NewView Family Eyecare Today

If you’re struggling with itchy, red, or watery eyes—especially during certain times of the year—you may be dealing with seasonal eye allergies. Because allergies and dry eye often go hand in hand, it’s important to seek comprehensive care that addresses both.

At NewView Family Eyecare, we’re here to help you see and feel your best year-round. Schedule an eye allergy evaluation and find out if ZEST is the right solution for you. Visit our office in Waterloo, Iowa, or call (319) 236-2020 to book an appointment today.