Eye Allergies
Allergy sufferers know the signs all too well-spring is literally in the air, and coming in direct contact with their eyes. Fortunately, you don’t have to suffer.
Common problems related to allergies include itchy, red, burning, watery, or swollen eyes. Triggers include pollens from grass, trees, and environmental contaminants, as well as dust, animal hair and yeast. The problem starts when the body's immune system mistakes these substances for unwanted foreign bodies. When the immune system overreacts, it triggers allergic reactions to protect the eyes from potential injury.
If you can pinpoint the cause of the allergy and avoid exposure whenever possible, that will help relieve your eyes the most. Unfortunately this is not always feasible.
If you recognize the symptoms of eye allergies, read on to find more helpful information.
Symptoms of Ocular or Eye Allergies
Is this the time of year when your eyes turn itchy, red, burning, or watery? Then you may be one of millions of Americans that suffer from seasonal ocular allergies. Pollens and grasses trigger the symptoms. While related to hay fever, treating the nasal congestion may not relieve your eyes. Check with your eye doctor, who can diagnosis your allergy correctly and advise you on treatment.
Seasonal vs. perennial allergies
You have probably figured out that your itchy, burning eyes are caused by an eye allergy. But did you know that eye allergies can be either “seasonal” or “perennial”? Seasonal allergies flare up when certain plants bloom. Things like dust mites or pet dander contribute to perennial allergies, so they last all year. Your eye doctor can determine what is causing your allergic reaction and prescribe the best course of treatment. So you don’t have to suffer.
Do I need a doctor or can I self prescribe?
If you have eye allergies, you have probably tried one or more over the counter remedies to ease the discomfort. Some may help; others can actually worsen the symptoms. Accurate diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment, because the symptoms of allergy, infection and even dry eye, can often be confused. Trust an eye doctor to diagnose your allergy accurately.
What about children?
About 40 percent of American children suffer from seasonal allergies. These allergies affect not just the nasal passages, but the eyes as well. Itchy, watery, burning or red eyes are among symptoms of a seasonal eye allergy. Treating the nasal congestion does not necessarily help the eye allergy. But your child does not need to suffer. If the symptoms concern you, check with your eye doctor who can help you find the treatment your child deserves.
