The Connection Between Young Age and Eyewash Use in Allergic Rhinitis: Insights and Implications

Eyewash Use in Allergic Rhinitis: Benefits, Risks, and Best Practices

For individuals battling allergic rhinitis, managing symptoms can be a daily challenge. A recent study sheds light on the use of eyewash as a self-care strategy, highlighting both its potential benefits and risks.While eyewash can offer relief from ocular symptoms, understanding its appropriate use is crucial to avoid potential harm.

The Study: Eyewash Usage and Allergic Rhinitis

A cross-sectional cohort study,led by Takenori Inomata,MD,PhD,from Juntendo University graduate School of Medicine in Japan,examined factors associated with eyewash use among individuals with allergic rhinitis. The study, conducted between February 2018 and May 2020, utilized the AllerSearch smartphone application to gather data on demographics, medical history, lifestyle, and allergic rhinitis symptoms from 9041 participants in Japan.^{[Inomata et al.,2025]}

The research revealed that 40.7% of participants with allergic rhinitis were regular eyewash users. These users typically employed eyewash products as needed during symptom flare-ups (43.9%), in the morning (24.8%), or in the evening (19.4%).

Key Findings: Who Uses Eyewash and Why?

The study identified several factors associated with eyewash use:

• Younger Age: Younger individuals were more likely to use eyewash. According to the researchers, “This likely reflects the higher sensitivity and awareness of new medical information among younger generations, allowing for faster adoption of eye washing as part of their symptom care routine.”
• Psychiatric History: A history of psychiatric illness was linked to increased eyewash usage.
• Contact Lens Use: Both current and past contact lens wearers were more prone to using eyewash.
• Lifestyle Factors: Active smoking and higher yogurt intake were also associated with eyewash use.
• Dry Eye Symptoms: Participants experiencing dry eye symptoms were more likely to use eyewash, suggesting a perceived benefit in alleviating discomfort.

Conversely,older age and longer sleep duration were associated with non-eyewash use.

The Double-Edged Sword: Benefits and Risks

While eyewash use was correlated with lower nasal symptom scores and higher non-nasal symptom scores, its impact on dry eye symptoms presents a more complex picture.

Inomata and colleagues noted, “…rather than indicating a causative effect of eyewash on [dry eye], our results likely reflect that patients with more severe ocular symptoms, including both allergic conjunctivitis and [dry eye], use eyewash as an effective self-care measure for both disease processes.”

However,they also cautioned,”However,more severe DE has been observed among eyewash users with ocular symptoms,suggesting concerns about exacerbating [dry eye] with frequent eyewash use.” This highlights the importance of moderation and careful consideration of eyewash ingredients.

Potential Downsides of Frequent eyewash Use

• Disruption of Tear Film Homeostasis: Frequent eyewash use can disrupt the natural balance of the tear film, potentially leading to or worsening dry eye disease.^{[Yazu et al., 2019]}
• Preservative Sensitivity: Many commercial eyewash products contain preservatives like benzalkonium chloride, which can irritate the eyes and exacerbate allergic symptoms if overused.

Expert Recommendations and Practical Applications

Given these findings, what’s the best approach to eyewash use for those with allergic rhinitis?

• Consult an Eye Care Professional: Before incorporating eyewash into your routine, consult with an ophthalmologist or optometrist to determine the underlying cause of your ocular symptoms and receive personalized recommendations.
• Choose Preservative-Free Options: Opt for preservative-free eyewash solutions to minimize the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
• use Sparingly: Use eyewash only as needed, rather than as a daily routine, to avoid disrupting the natural tear film.
• Consider Choice Treatments: Explore other options for managing allergic conjunctivitis and dry eye, such as artificial tears, lubricating eye drops, and prescription medications.
• Address Underlying Allergies: Work with an allergist to identify and manage the underlying allergens triggering your allergic rhinitis symptoms.

The Bottom Line: Informed Self-Care

Eyewash can be a valuable tool for alleviating ocular symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding the potential benefits and risks, choosing appropriate products, and consulting with eye care professionals are essential steps for informed self-care. If you’re considering using eyewash, take a proactive approach to protect your eye health. Discuss your symptoms and treatment options with your doctor today to develop a personalized plan that meets your needs.

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Citations:

[Inomata et al., 2025] Inomata T, Sung J, Nagino K, Midorikawa-Inomata A, Eguchi A, Adachi T, Kobayashi H, Nakao S. Profiling eyewash usage and preferences in individuals with hay fever using a digital cross-sectional cohort study with AllerSearch. Sci Rep. 2025 Mar 10;15(1):8275. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-93027-z. PMID: 40065121.

[Yazu et al., 2019] Yazu H, Kozuki N, Dogru M, Shibasaki A, Fujishima H. The Effect of Long-Term Use of an Eyewash solution on the Ocular Surface Mucin Layer. Int J Mol sci. 2019 Oct 13;20(20):5078. doi: 10.3390/ijms20205078. PMID: 31614909; PMCID: PMC6834188.

does using eyewash for allergic rhinitis provide any lasting relief or simply mask the symptoms?

Archyde Exclusive: Navigating Eyewash Use for Allergic Rhinitis – An Expert’s Perspective

Welcome back to Archyde. Today, we’re diving deep into a common self-care method for those suffering from allergic rhinitis: eyewash.A recent study has highlighted both the potential benefits and risks of its use. To help us navigate this topic, we’re joined by dr.Anya Sharma, a leading ophthalmologist specializing in allergic eye conditions. Dr. Sharma,welcome to Archyde!

Understanding the Study: Eyewash and Allergic Rhinitis Relief

Archyde: Dr.Sharma, thanks for joining us. This recent study from Juntendo University has stirred quite a bit of conversation around eyewash use. Could you break down the key takeaways for our readers?

Dr.Sharma: Absolutely. The study, led by Dr. Inomata, essentially confirms what many ophthalmologists have observed: that a meaningful portion of allergic rhinitis sufferers use eyewash to alleviate ocular symptoms like itching and redness. However, it also brings to light the potential downsides of frequent and uninformed use.

Who Benefits Most (and Least) from Eyewash?

Archyde: The study identifies certain groups more prone to eyewash use, such as younger individuals and contact lens wearers. Are there specific scenarios where you’d more readily recommend eyewash?

Dr. Sharma: Certainly. Eyewash can offer temporary relief during acute symptom flare-ups, particularly for removing allergens like pollen. Contact lens wearers, prone to dry eye and irritation, might find it helpful, but it is paramount they consult their eye care professional first, because certain contact lens materials do not work well with some types of eyewash.

The Double-Edged Sword: Benefits vs. Risks of Eyewash

Archyde: The research suggests a complex impact on dry eye symptoms. Can you elaborate on this “double-edged sword” effect?

Dr. Sharma: The study points out that while some individuals with dry eye may use eyewash for relief, frequent use can actually disrupt the natural tear film. It’s a delicate balance. Over-washing can strip away essential oils and proteins that keep the eyes properly lubricated,perhaps worsening dry eye in the long run. I strongly advise dry eye patients to use lubricating drops first, and use Eyewash only after the lubricating drops fail to provide sufficient relief.

Preservatives: The Silent Irritants in Eyewash Solutions

Archyde: Preservatives like benzalkonium chloride are mentioned as potential irritants. How big of a concern is this, and what should consumers look for?

Dr. Sharma: Preservative sensitivity is a significant issue. Benzalkonium chloride, while effective at preventing bacterial contamination, can irritate the ocular surface, especially with frequent use. I always recommend patients with any degree of dry eye to opt for preservative-free eyewash solutions to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

Practical Tips: Incorporating Eyewash Safely into Your Routine

Archyde: What are some practical recommendations for our readers considering or currently using eyewash for allergic rhinitis?

Dr. Sharma: First and foremost, consult your eye doctor! They can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of action. Choose preservative-free eyewash whenever possible, and use it sparingly, only when needed to relieve acute symptoms. Consider alternatives like artificial tears or prescription medications for managing allergic conjunctivitis and don’t forget to address the underlying allergies by seeing an allergist.

A Thought-Provoking Question: Is Eyewash a Band-Aid or a Long-Term Solution?

Archyde: Dr.Sharma, a final, slightly provocative question: Is eyewash ultimately a band-aid solution or a legitimate long-term management strategy for allergic rhinitis-related eye issues?

Dr. Sharma: That’s an excellent question. In most cases, eyewash is a band-aid. It provides temporary relief, but it doesn’t address the root cause of the allergic reaction.It should be part of a broader management plan that includes identifying and avoiding allergens,using appropriate medications,and maintaining good eye hygiene. Think of it as a helpful tool in your toolbox, but not the only one you should be reaching for. it should definitely not be used as a substitute if your doctor has prescribed medicine to address your ocular allergies. This topical medication has been formulated with precise active ingredients to address your allergies and should be the first option you explore for acute relief.

Archyde: Dr. Sharma, thank you so much for your insightful guidance. This has been incredibly helpful for our readers.

Dr. Sharma: My pleasure.

What are your thoughts on using eyewash for allergic rhinitis? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below!