7.4.2026
This year’s warm weather in the first half of March kicked off pollen season earlier than usual. For allergy sufferers, this means only one thing: watery eyes, a burning sensation, and a runny nose. Although these symptoms may sometimes seem minor, untreated eye allergies can be dangerous for your vision.
In the Czech Republic, one in three people suffers from some form of allergy, with half of them experiencing eye problems. The most common symptoms of eye allergies include:
- Itching and burning of the eyes,
- Increased tearing and redness,
- A “foreign body” sensation or grittiness in the eye,
- Swollen eyelids and conjunctivitis (pink eye).
First Aid and Prevention
If your eyes are burning, there are several ways to get quick relief:
- Avoid contact with the allergen: Wear sunglasses outdoors to prevent debris and pollen from entering your eyes.
- Rinse your eyes: Flush irritated eyes with cold water or use lubricating eye drops. You can also use “artificial tears,” ideally preservative-free.
- Don’t rub your eyes: Rubbing only makes the situation worse and can lead to mechanical damage.
- Use appropriate products: Acute symptoms can be relieved by eye drops containing antihistamines.
- Limit contact lens wear: If you’re experiencing issues, swap your contacts for glasses until the symptoms subside.
Allergies can appear at any time during your life. If symptoms do not improve even after using over-the-counter medications, seek help from an ophthalmologist (eye doctor). Long-term untreated allergic inflammation can affect the cornea, and its deterioration can lead to impaired vision.
