Are you having itchy or dry eyes? You may be experiencing allergic reactions such as eye allergies. Here’s how you can diagnose this problem with these eye irritation treatment.
How To Treat Common Eye Allergy Symptoms
In this article:
- What Are Common Eye Allergy Symptoms?
- Why Do Eye Allergies Occur?
- Can Eye Allergies Cause Visual Problems?
- When To Consult An Eye Doctor?
- Where Do We Get Medications for Eye Allergies?
- How To Prevent Eye Allergies
What Are Common Eye Allergy Symptoms?
You may be experiencing allergic conjunctivitis if your eyes’ sclera starts to become red. Allergic conjunctivitis is the eyes’ natural reaction to allergens. Here are the common eye allergies symptoms:
- watery eyes
- itchy eyes
- red/pink eyes
- swollen eyes
Why Do Eye Allergies Occur?
We should identify the allergens that trigger eye irritation. Here are the common causes of eye allergies:
- Dust mites – Dust mites or bed mites are specks found in pillows, carpets and other home furniture. These can cause irritation and eye allergies. Inhaling too much of this indoor pollutant can cause asthma.
- Pet dander – These are pet skin flakes that float in the air. These cause allergic reactions such as asthma and eye allergies. People with asthma show shortness of breath when exposed.
- Pollen – Pollen can live in outdoor and household plants. It varies on to which tree or flower the person is allergic to.
- Contact lenses – Contact lenses are often the culprit for eye allergies. Allergic reactions start to develop if worn too long or if poorly maintained.
- Allergic rhinitis – Allergic rhinitis is also known as hay fever. It happens when the immune system gets irritated by allergens. Its symptoms include a runny nose, watery eyes, itchy eyes and swollen eyes.
- Seasonal allergies – Seasonal allergy is also known as hay fever. It is an allergic rhinitis wherein the allergic reactions manifest during certain seasons.
Can Eye Allergies Cause Visual Problems?
If left untreated, severe eye allergies can develop into visual problems. Here are the possible complications:
- Dry eyes – are from meibomian gland dysfunction and eye irritation. A dry climate can cause dry eyes. Seasonal allergies are possible causes.
- Floaters – are the spot-like shapes that inhibit your vision. They cause eye inflammation.
- Subconjunctival hemorrhage – Subconjunctival hemorrhage is blood from a disrupted blood vessel. The sclera will turn red. This results in bloodshot eyes. Possible causes are intense sneezing, intense coughing, eye rubbing and eye allergies. If left untreated, this could lead to double vision.
- Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis – Allergic Rhinoconjunctivitis causes nasal congestion and itching eyes. This may cause problems leading to subconjunctival hemorrhage.
When To Consult An Eye Doctor?
Given the high risks of eye allergies, we recommend you visit an eye doctor. Eye doctors conduct eye exams to verify the causes of eye allergies. Eye doctors will know whether the triggers are from pollutants or food allergies.
Where Do We Get Medications for Eye Allergies?
It depends on the condition and severity of the allergic conjunctivitis. Here are the medications to reduce eye allergies:
- Over-the-counter otc antihistamines – Antihistamines reduce allergic reactions. Histamine counts in inflammatory responses and arbitrates itching. Antihistamines make sure to keep histamine at bay.
- Eye drops – Common eye drops come in either antihistamine or mast cell stabilizers. Mast cells are substances that increase inflammation and allergic reaction. It is the main trigger of asthma. Mast cell stabilizers control these elements by blocking their production. We recommend Allergy Desensitization Eye Drops.
- Allergy shots – Check if there are any improvements from eye drops or oral medications. If problem still persists, allergy shots can be an alternative. These allergy shots adjust your body’s response to allergens. This immunotherapy is a treatment program that can last for years. Eye doctors track and increase the dosage.
- Eye allergy home remedy – Cold compress can give eye relief. Natural eye drops such as rose water and coconut oil works as simple solutions too.
How To Prevent Eye Allergies
Moving forward, it is best to develop an eye care regime to prevent eye allergies.
- Impede eye allergies and asthmatic reaction by keeping the environment clean. Lesser dust mites, pet dander and pollen reduces the chances of an allergic reaction. Air purifiers can help.
- Contact lenses should always be clean. Remember to disinfect contact lenses with cleaning solution every time.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes as this may cause scratches on the eyeballs.
- Make sure to have clean hands before removing your contact lenses. Hand sanitizers come in handy to keep our hands germ-free.
What are some easy ways to relieve eye allergies? Dr. Sunita Rana Argawal of Doctor’s Circle shares some remedy tips in this short video:
Natural eye drops and other over-the-counter otc medicines can provide instant relief. Take breaks from time to time. The eyes might feel tired and need a little rest. If eye discomfort still persists, it is best to have it checked by an eye doctor.
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