WHAT ARE EYE ALLERGIES?

Eye allergies are a fairly common eye condition. The medical term used to describe eye allergies is allergic conjunctivitis.

When your eyes come into contact with an allergen, like pollen, your body's defense system (immune system) works to attack the allergens by releasing histamines.

When this happens, your eyes can become red and swollen (inflamed).

People who suffer from other allergies are more likely to experience eye allergies too.

WHAT CAUSES EYE ALLERGIES?

Some of the most common causes of eye allergies include:

Seasonal Eye Allergies - certain seasons can be challenging for people who are allergic to tree, grass and weed pollens. Typically these are more pronounced in the Spring, but can occur at other times of the year as well.
Year round or perennial conjunctivitis - people with allergies to dust mites, pet dander and indoor allergens may experience eye allergy irritation throughout the year.
Contact conjunctivitis - your eye has a natural balance and when something comes into contact with your eye, it can upset that balance and result in contact conjunctivitis. This could included make-up, medications, perfume or even wind blown objects. It may take two to four days after contact for symptoms to appear.
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) - this is an allergic reaction to contact lenses. Contact lenses can be contaminated by poor handling (not washing hands) or when the solutions or cases used with contact lenses become contaminated. Good contact lens hygiene can help prevent this.

EYE ALLERGY SYMPTOMS

Itchiness

Red, irritated eyes

Tearing

Swollen eyelids

Light sensitivity

Soreness, burning, or pain

Schedule an eye exam

TREATING EYE ALLERGIES

Ideally, we suggest you avoid coming into contact with the things that cause eye irritation. Since that isn't always possible, there are several medications available to help provide relief from eye allergies.

Prevention tips

Minimize indoor triggers -
Wash your hair before going to bed - many allergens can get trapped in your hair and then on the pillow case
Wash your bed linens more often and use hot water
Consider using allergen-reducing bed linens
When cleaning inside, instead of sweeping and dry dusting, use a wet rag or mop to trap allergens
If you are allergic to pet dander, consider replacing carpet with hard surface flooring
Many household cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can cause eye irritation, consider natural cleaners instead
Avoid outdoor triggers -
When pollen counts are high, limit outdoor exposure
Keep windows closed in your car and home
Wearing glasses can help keep pollen out of your eyes
Don't rub your eyes - rubbing your eyes can actually irritate them more and potentially introduce new allergens

When prevention alone isn't enough, allergy medications can provide relief:

Artificial tears can be used to temporarily wash away allergens
Over the counter or prescription decongestants
Over the counter or prescription antihistamine eye drops
Oral antihistamines
Steroids
Allergy shots

If you suffer from eye allergies and have struggled to find relief, you could have more than just eye allergies. We can provide a comprehensive eye exam and provide you with options for relieving eye irritation. Call or text us at (405) 341-2062 or schedule an appointment online.