Don’t Let Hay Fever Blur Your Summer: Your Essential Eye Care Guide
Post on 9th April 2026
As we awaken from the grey, drabness of winter to the beautiful rainbow of colour that spring presents, for some of us this also means red, itchy and streaming eyes. For millions of hay fever sufferers in the UK, this is an all too familiar reality.
At Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, with over 85 years’ experience in eye care, we are here to help you get through the season as comfortably as possible. The good news is that with the right care, you can protect your eyesight and enjoy the warmer months to the full.
Why does hay fever affect your eyes?
According to Government figures, a quarter (26%) of adults in the UK suffer from the symptoms of hay fever – also known as allergic rhinitis. When pollen from trees, grass, or weeds lands on the surface of your eye, your immune system can mistake it for a threat and trigger an allergic reaction, resulting in eyes that are:
- Itchy or burning
- Red or pink
- Watery or streaming
- Puffy or swollen around the lids
- Sensitive to light
While these symptoms are rarely dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and distracting, which affect your day-to-day life and the quality of your vision.
Top tips to protect your eyes during hay fever season
- Wear wraparound sunglasses
A good pair of wraparound sunglasses is one of the best defences you have against pollen. They act as a physical barrier, reducing the amount of pollen that can reach the surface of your eyes. As an added bonus, they’ll protect your eyes from UV rays too – a win-win for your precious eyes.
- Resist the urge to rub your eyes
The most natural thing to do when your eyes are itching is rub them. But rubbing actually makes matters worse. It releases more histamine in the eye tissue, intensifying the allergic reaction and increasing redness and swelling. Instead, try a cool, damp cloth gently pressed over closed eyes for temporary relief.
- Use eye drops
Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops or preservative-free lubricating drops can make a real difference during hay fever season. Lubricating drops help to wash pollen away from the surface of the eye, while antihistamine drops target the allergic response directly.
- Keep an eye on the pollen forecast
Just like checking the weather before you head out, checking the daily pollen forecast can help you plan your day. The Met Office provides a free pollen forecast across the UK. On high-pollen days, consider limiting time outdoors – especially in the early morning and evening when pollen counts tend to peak.
- Keep windows closed
It’s tempting to let fresh air in on a sunny day, but open windows are an open invitation for pollen. Keep windows and doors closed when pollen counts are high. If you do open windows, try to do so much later in the evening when pollen levels have settled.
- Shower and change after being outside
Pollen clings to your hair, skin and clothing. Getting into the habit of showering and changing when you come indoors can dramatically reduce the amount of pollen you bring into your home and help to keep it away from your eyes.
- Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water supports healthy tear production, helping your eyes to naturally flush out irritants like pollen. It’s a simple habit that makes a real difference.
Special advice for contact lens wearers
If you wear contact lenses, hay fever season can feel particularly challenging. Pollen and other allergens can stick to the surface of your lenses, making symptoms feel more intense and prolonged.
Here are a few things that can help:
- Switch to daily disposables during peak season. Because you discard them each day, there’s less chance of pollen build-up on the lens.
- Give your eyes a break. On very high pollen days, consider switching to your glasses instead. Your eyes will thank you for it.
- Minimise touching your eyes when handling lenses – always wash your hands thoroughly first.
If your lenses are consistently uncomfortable during hay fever season, it’s worth having a chat with your local Scrivens team. They can help you find the most suitable lenses for your lifestyle and needs.
When to see a professional
Most hay fever related eye symptoms are manageable at home, but there are times when it’s important to seek professional advice. Book an appointment with your local Scrivens branch if:
- Your symptoms are severe or not improving with over-the-counter treatments
- Your vision becomes blurred or changes
- You experience pain in or around the eye
- Your eyes are producing a thick discharge (this could indicate an infection rather than an allergy)
- Symptoms are significantly affecting your quality of life
Our friendly and experienced opticians are here to help. We can assess your eye health, rule out any other causes for your symptoms, and recommend the right course of action for you.
If you found this blog useful, you may also be interested in reading our face shape guide to finding the perfect frames.