As the seasons shift across California’s Central Coast, many patients notice their eyes becoming red, itchy, or watery. Fall allergies, contagious pink eye, and dry eye disease are among the most common causes of eye irritation during this time of year. While symptoms can overlap, each condition has distinct characteristics.
At ADV Vision, our goal is to help you understand what’s really causing your eye discomfort. Here’s how to recognize the differences.
Why Eye Irritation Increases in the Fall
As the seasons shift across California’s Central Coast, many patients notice their eyes becoming red, itchy, or watery. Fall allergies, contagious pink eye, and dry eye disease are among the most common causes of eye irritation during this time of year. While symptoms can overlap, each condition has distinct characteristics.
At ADV Vision, our goal is to help you understand what’s really causing your eye discomfort. Here’s how to recognize the differences.
Fall Allergies (Allergic Conjunctivitis)
Fall allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when allergens such as ragweed pollen, mold spores, or dust mites trigger an immune response in the eyes. This leads to the release of histamines, which cause swelling and irritation.
Common allergy-related eye symptoms include:
- Intense itching (the hallmark sign)
- Puffy or swollen eyelids
- Clear, watery discharge that mimics constant tearing
- Sneezing, nasal congestion, or other allergy symptoms
Key point: Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. Symptoms often improve with over-the-counter antihistamine drops, but persistent irritation may require further evaluation by an eye doctor.
Pink Eye (Infectious Conjunctivitis)
Pink eye (infectious conjunctivitis) is caused by a viral or bacterial infection of the conjunctiva. Because its symptoms overlap with allergies, it is often confused with other eye conditions.
Signs of pink eye include:
- Gritty or burning sensation (rather than itching)
- Thick yellow or green discharge in bacterial cases (often causing eyelids to stick together in the morning)
- Clear, watery discharge in viral cases
- Red, bloodshot eyes
- Typically starts in one eye and spreads to the other
Key point: Pink eye is highly contagious, especially viral cases. If you suspect pink eye, it’s important to seek a proper diagnosis to determine if antibiotic treatment is needed.
Dry Eye Syndrome (Often Worse in Fall)
Another overlooked cause of seasonal eye discomfort is dry eye disease. Fall weather conditions—cooler air, stronger winds, and indoor heating—can speed up tear evaporation, leading to irritation. Seasonal allergens may also worsen dryness, leaving the eyes feeling uncomfortable day after day.
Common dry eye symptoms include:
- Persistent gritty, scratchy, or burning sensation
- Blurry vision after prolonged reading or screen use
- Light sensitivity
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Excessive tearing as the eyes try to overcompensate for dryness
Key point: Unlike allergies or pink eye, dry eye is a chronic condition. Because its symptoms mimic other eye issues, a professional Dry Eye Evaluation is the best way to identify the underlying cause and create a personalized plan for relief.
Schedule a Dry Eye Evaluation at ADV Vision
If your eyes feel irritated this fall and you’re unsure whether it’s allergies, pink eye, or dry eye, our specialists at ADV Vision can help. A comprehensive Dry Eye Evaluation allows us to pinpoint the source of your discomfort and recommend the right next steps for lasting relief.
