The trees are blooming, the grass is turning green, and spring is in the air — literally. While warmer weather and outdoor time can lift your spirits, they can also bring an unwelcome guest: seasonal allergies.

Have your eyes started watering? Is your nose feeling stuffy? If so, you’re not alone. As flowers bloom and pollen levels rise, it’s important to know how to manage allergy symptoms and prevent complications — including eye infections like pink eye.

Allergy Season Is Here — Start Preparing Now

If you typically suffer through spring, now is the time to act. Experts recommend starting allergy medications before symptoms hit. This can reduce your reaction and help you stay ahead of the pollen.

Common allergy symptoms include:

• Itchy, red, or watery eyes
• Clear nasal discharge
• Sneezing
• Scratchy throat or ears

Unlike viruses that develop gradually, allergy symptoms often come on suddenly — especially on high-pollen days. Try to limit time outdoors when pollen counts are high, keep windows closed, and use air conditioning when possible. And skip hanging laundry outside — pollen can cling to fabrics.

Eye Allergies & Pink Eye: What’s the Connection?

Among the eye-related issues triggered during allergy season, conjunctivitis (commonly called pink eye) is one of the most common. It refers to inflammation of the thin, clear tissue covering the white of the eye and inside the eyelids.

While the tissue is clear, it contains small blood vessels. When irritated or infected, these vessels enlarge, giving the eye a red or pink appearance.

3 Types of Pink Eye

Allergic Conjunctivitis

• Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
• Not contagious.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

• Caused by bacteria entering the eye.
• Can lead to serious complications if untreated.

Viral Conjunctivitis

• Caused by viruses similar to the common cold.
• Highly contagious but typically clears on its own.

Treatment Options

Allergic Pink Eye:

• Treated with antihistamines or allergy eye drops.
• Best prevented by starting allergy medications before symptoms begin.

Bacterial Pink Eye:

• Requires a visit to your optometrist for prescription antibiotic eye drops.
• Prompt treatment helps prevent complications and spread.

Viral Pink Eye:

• Usually resolves on its own in a few days.
• Apply cool compresses to relieve discomfort — but don’t share them with others, as this form is very contagious.

Prevention Tips

Good hygiene can be the key to not sharing Pink Eye with family members. Stay healthy and reduce your risk of eye infections with these simple precautions:

• Don’t share towels, washcloths, tissues, or eye drops.
• Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes — especially after coughing or sneezing.
• Never share contact lenses or contact lens cases.
• Remove contacts before swimming, hot tubs, or even showering.
• Wash your hands frequently, especially in schools, daycares, and other public places.

If you have seasonal allergies, talk with your doctor about prevention strategies. If you’re experiencing red, itchy, or irritated eyes — especially if accompanied by discharge or blurred vision — don’t wait it out. Let the doctors at Bissell Eye Care help you get relief and avoid potential complications.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.