Can I wear contact lenses when I have hay fever?

Contact lens wearers might find it uncomfortable wearing them when their hay fever symptoms flare up. Your optometrist will be able to advise you on how to keep your eyes comfortable during hay fever season.

Hay fever | Specsavers CA

How does hay fever affect vision?

For those with hay fever, pollen season can be an especially difficult time of year. Exposure to pollen can cause irritation and inflammation to your eyes, nose, throat, and sinuses. This can be very uncomfortable and debilitating when pollen counts are at their highest.

Symptoms

Frequent sneezing
Congested or runny nose
Red, itchy, watery eyes
Itchy nose, ears, and throat

Symptoms related to allergies can also be signs of other potentially more serious eye conditions, so make sure to see your optometrist as soon as you can if you’re experiencing such symptoms.

Common causes

Hay fever is a form of hypersensitivity in which the immune system reacts negatively to otherwise harmless substances such as pollen, animal hair, or dust mites.

Treatment

There are different ways to manage allergic rhinitis, like using antihistamine eye drops, nasal sprays, and oral antihistamines.

Some people might find it helpful to wear tight‑fitting glasses or sunglasses during allergy season and days with high pollen counts, in order to reduce your eyes' exposure to pollen.

If you normally wear contact lenses, you may experience blurred vision and discomfort when you have hay fever. Speak to your optometrist to see what type of contact lenses and management options are best for you.

Next steps

We want to help you see clearly and keep your eyes healthy for as long as possible. If your optometrist detects any signs of an eye condition during your comprehensive eye exam, they will determine an appropriate management plan that suits your needs.

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Frequently asked questions

Reviewed by Dr. Aneil Sandhu

Dr. Aneil Sandhu received his doctorate from Aston University School of Optometry in Birmingham, UK and now practices as a Doctor of Optometry at Specsavers Metrotown in British Columbia. He has vast experience working in both hospital and private practice settings and enjoys seeing patients of all ages to develop a range of eyecare treatment plans.

Noticed a change in your eyesight?

If you have any concerns about your eye health, contact or visit your local optometrist immediately – even if you do not have an appointment.