It’s springtime, and with it comes pollen—the common cause
	 of the seasonal allergies symptoms of sneezing, congestion, a runny or
	 itchy nose and coughing. Allergens like pollen also can cause eye allergies
	 or dry eyes.
Research and surveys over the past 20 years have shown that almost 5 million
	 Americans, 50 years and older, have moderate to severe dry eye disease.
	 Studies also indicate that approximately 40% of the US population experience
	 symptoms correlated to allergy.
	In this KSLU 90.9 FM “Point of View” show, host Rosa Dunn and
	Optometrist Addie Smith of
	North Oaks Eye Care Clinic in Hammond, La. talk about what causes dry eyes and ways to prevent and
	 treat the condition.
Dr. Smith is a native of Amite, La. and resident of Ponchatoula, La. specializing
	 in complete vision care for her patients, including:
	- annual eye exams for adults and children of all ages
- eye wear and medication prescriptions
- contact lens and specialty fits
- diagnosis, management and therapeutic treatment of ocular diseases, such
		 as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and eye infections.