Eye Allergies


Common Eye Conditions
Eye Allergies- Causes, Symptoms, and When to See an Optometrist?
How many irritating and disturbing conditions can you imagine at once? Can you name a lot of them? Perhaps, just a handful of them? You’d be right to count eye allergies among those annoying and agitating health conditions that may disturb your daily life to a great extent.
The main reason eye allergies, i.e., allergic conjunctivitis, occur is due to contact with a substance (allergen) that triggers an adverse response from your immune system (release of histamine).
Common Types of Eye Allergies/ Allergic Conjunctivitis
Some of the most common types of eye allergies that people experience:
- Atopic Keratoconjunctivitis
- Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis
- Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis
- Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Perennial Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Contact Allergic Conjunctivitis
Main Causes Of Eye Allergies
Generally, allergens/ substances that trigger eye allergies/ allergic conjunctivitis are present in the air. Hence, breathing them in can trigger your eye allergies.
At other times, the trigger that caused your allergic conjunctivitis may be direct physical contact with substances/allergens. One such example is touching your eyes with your fingers. When your body comes in contact with these allergens, it generates an adverse response in the form of chemicals (histamine), which cause your eyes to become red, itchy, and even swollen.
Allergic reactions in your eyes may also trigger because of some drugs, perfumes, or even cosmetics! Some common allergens:
- Dander (often from pets)
- Mould
- Smoke
- Dust particles/ dust mites
- Pollen (sources include grass, certain flowers, trees, etc.)
Symptoms
However, you may experience different common symptoms due to such a condition.
- Scaling near the eyes
- Reddish eyes
- Rashes in the eye or on the eyelids
- Watery eyes
- Burning and itching eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Pink eyes
You may experience multiple symptoms at once. However, eye allergy symptoms include certain nasal problems such as congestion, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, and runny nose.
Treatment and Preventative Measures
Avoid opening windows if there is an influx of dust, pollen, or pet dander. You can reduce your chances of suffering from an allergic reaction by avoiding contact with allergens. Other preventative and treatment options include:
- Eye drops (to control inflammation or irritation in your eyes0
- Over-the-counter drugs such as antihistamine
- Use of Air Purifiers
- Cool Compress over eyes
When Should I See My Optometrist About Eye Allergies?
Consider seeking professional medical care (diagnosis such as allergic and blood tests) from an optometrist if your eye allergy is persistent all year-round. However, avoid ignoring acute symptoms as well. For example, do not avoid seeing an optometrist when your eye allergies and symptoms are seasonal and persist for shorter periods.
Conclusion
If you encounter any of the symptoms above or feel that your eye allergies are getting worse, you should seek an appointment with the best optometrist to start medications. Besides, how can you work effectively and efficiently if common things, such as perfume and cosmetics, trigger painful and agitating eye conditions?
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