It’s a common summer question: “Are my eyes dry, or is it just allergies?” If you live in Spokane, the answer might be both. The region’s dry climate, high pollen counts, and long, sunny days can all lead to irritation, and it’s not always easy to tell what’s causing the problem.
At Eyes for Life, we often help patients distinguish between dry eyes and allergies in Spokane. Since each condition requires different care, getting a clear diagnosis is the first step. Understanding the difference between dry eye and allergies can help you take better care of your vision all summer long.
Dry Eye vs. Allergies
Although they can feel similar, dry eye vs. allergies comes down to the cause. Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears or when those tears evaporate too quickly. This is especially common in Spokane’s hot, low-humidity summers.
Allergies, on the other hand, are your body’s immune response to things like pollen, pet dander, or dust. Your eyes may become itchy or watery as part of a seasonal reaction.
Dry eyes tend to feel gritty, burning, or tired, while allergy symptoms are often accompanied by sneezing, congestion, or sinus pressure. Recognizing the difference between dry eye and allergies early on can help you get the right relief.
Why Spokane Summers Make Eye Irritation Worse
It’s no secret that Spokane summers are dry. That’s great for sunshine, but not always great for your eyes. When humidity drops, your tears evaporate faster, leading to more dry eye symptoms in summer. On top of that, wildfire smoke, wind, and increased screen time can all make it worse.
Meanwhile, Spokane’s allergy season and eyes are another tricky combo. Grass, weed pollen, and other allergens tend to peak during the summer months, causing itchy, watery, or red eyes. Since both conditions often overlap, it can be hard to tell what’s really behind your discomfort.
Spotting the Difference Between Dry Eyes or Allergies in Spokane
Some signs can help you figure out what you’re dealing with:
- Itchy eyes and sneezing? Likely allergies.
- A gritty, burning sensation? Often dry eye.
- Blurry vision and light sensitivity? Common dry eye symptoms in the summer.
- Puffy eyelids and nasal symptoms? More typical of allergies.
- Excessive tearing? It could be either—dry eye can trigger reflex tears.
At Eyes for Life, we can help you sort it out with a thorough exam and advanced diagnostic tools. Knowing whether it’s dry eyes or allergies in Spokane allows us to create a treatment plan that actually works.
Summer Eye Symptoms to Keep an Eye On
Whether you’re battling dry eye symptoms in summer or dealing with seasonal allergies, here are some common issues to watch for:
- Redness and irritation
- Watery or teary eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Itching and puffiness
- Burning, stinging, or blurry vision
- That scratchy “something’s in my eye” feeling
If your symptoms keep coming back, let us help. Our team can evaluate your eyes using tools like InflammaDry, LipiScan imaging, and tear film analysis to get a clearer picture of what’s going on.
Simple Tips for Better Summer Eye Care in Spokane
A few small habits can go a long way in protecting your eyes during the summer:
- Stay hydrated
- Wear sunglasses outdoors
- Use a humidifier indoors
- Take screen breaks and follow the 20-20-20 rule
- Keep artificial tears nearby (preservative-free options like Systane Balance or Oasis Plus PF work well)
These are some of the easiest ways to improve summer eye care in Spokane, whether you’re dealing with allergies, dryness, or both.
Dry Eye Treatment That Works in Spokane
If your eyes still feel uncomfortable despite home remedies, it may be time to consider professional dry eye treatment in Spokane. At Eyes for Life, we offer a full Dry Eye Relief Clinic with personalized care for lasting results.
Depending on your needs, your treatment may include:
- Omega-3 supplements
- Prescription drops like Xiidra or Regener-Eyes
- In-office therapies like LipiFlow
- OptiLight IPL therapy, which treats inflammation and gland dysfunction
We’ll build a treatment plan that fits your symptoms and lifestyle, because your eyes deserve more than guesswork.
