Are your eyes red, itchy, or watery? You may be asking yourself: Do I have dry eyes, or is it allergies? Because the symptoms overlap, many people misdiagnose themselves and delay treatment. At Schauffele Optometry in Sacramento CA, our doctors help patients identify the difference and create tailored treatment plans.
If you are searching for an optometrist near me or the best eye doctor in Sacramento, this guide explains how to recognize each condition and when to book an appointment.
Causes of Dry Eyes
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Common causes include:
- Aging and reduced tear production
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (blocked oil glands in the eyelids)
- Screen time and reduced blinking
- Sacramento’s dry climate, wind, or indoor heating and air conditioning
Symptoms of dry eye:
- Burning or stinging
- Gritty or sandy sensation
- Blurred vision that improves with blinking
- Eye strain after reading or computer use
Causes of Eye Allergies
Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when your immune system reacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander.
Symptoms of eye allergies:
- Persistent itching
- Puffy eyelids
- Red, watery eyes
- Sneezing or nasal congestion
Unlike dry eye disease, allergies often appear seasonally in Sacramento, especially in spring and fall.
Key Differences Between Dry Eyes and Allergies
| Symptom | Dry Eye | Allergies |
|---|---|---|
| Itching | Mild or none | Severe and frequent |
| Burning or stinging | Common | Rare |
| Grittiness or sandy feeling | Common | Rare |
| Puffy eyelids | Rare | Common |
| Seasonal pattern | Unlikely | Very common |
Treatment Options at Schauffele Optometry Sacramento
At Schauffele Optometry, our Sacramento eye doctors use advanced testing to determine whether symptoms are caused by dry eye, allergies, or both.
Dry Eye Treatments
- IPL therapy for meibomian gland dysfunction
- Prescription drops and lubricants
- Amniotic membrane therapy for severe cases
- Lifestyle adjustments and home care
Allergy Treatments
- Prescription antihistamine or anti-inflammatory drops
- Cold compresses
- Personalized allergen avoidance advice
Why Professional Diagnosis Matters
Many patients assume allergies are the cause and rely on store-bought drops. Unfortunately, this often worsens dry eye symptoms. Left untreated, chronic dry eye can damage the eye’s surface and affect long-term vision.
Booking an exam with a Sacramento optometrist ensures you get the correct diagnosis and treatment.
FAQs
Can I have both dry eyes and allergies?
Yes, many patients experience both. That is why professional testing at Schauffele Optometry is important.
Do allergy drops treat dry eye?
No. Overusing allergy drops can worsen dry eye symptoms.
When should I see an eye doctor in Sacramento?
If your symptoms last more than a few days, or if over-the-counter drops do not help, schedule an appointment.
Schedule Your Eye Exam in Sacramento CA
At Schauffele Optometry in Sacramento, we provide expert care for both dry eyes and allergies.
Book your appointment online today and discover why patients choose us for vision care services in Sacramento.
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