Eye allergy is a common condition that develops as a result of different risk factors which affect the eyes. The most frequent eye allergy symptoms include redness, itchy eyes, and excessive tears.
Eye allergy can be treated with oral medication and eye drops, but sometimes taking some precautions and avoiding allergy triggers can be very beneficial.
At Novomed, our Ophthalmologists are ready to assess you and provide you with appropriate treatment and honest advice.
Symptoms
The symptoms vary from one person to another according to the type of eye allergy they have. Common symptoms include:
- Itchy eyes
- Eye redness and irritation
- Teary eyes
- Red, swollen eyelids
- Eye dryness
- Allergic shiners (dark circles under the eyes)
Causes
Many factors can affect the eyes and lead to allergic reactions, including outdoor and indoor allergens, and specific health conditions. The most common causes are:
- Air pollutants
- Pollen
- Dust, mold, and humidity
- Pet dander
- Cosmetics and makeup
- Smoke
- Some medications
Types of Eye allergy
1. Seasonal Eye Allergy
Seasonal eye allergy is the most common type, as it occurs due to seasonal factors. Its main symptoms include itching, burning, redness, tearing eyes, swollen eyelids, and dark circles under the eyes (known as allergic shiners). These symptoms can be associated with fever, nasal congestion, and runny nose.
2. Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis is one of the most common types of eye allergy. It is an infection that develops in the conjunctiva due to multiple allergens, including pollens, dust, mold, and other factors. The main symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include tearing, burning and itching, blurry vision, redness, and swollen eyes.
3. Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis
This type of eye surgery may be dangerous. If left untreated, vernal keratoconjunctivitis may lead to blindness. If you notice any of these symptoms: itching, tearing eyes, sensitivity to light, and feeling of something in your eyes, it is crucial to consult the ophthalmologist immediately.
4. Contact Allergic Conjunctivitis
This type usually occurs when you wear contact lenses for a long time, which might affect the eyes. Its symptoms include redness, itching, lens discomfort, and eye mucous discharge.
5. Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis
Giant papillary conjunctivitis is similar to contact allergic conjunctivitis, but it might be more severe. The most common symptoms include fluid sacs, papules, itchy eyes, mucous discharge, and teary eyes, in addition to blurry vision and lens discomfort.
Treatment
Eye allergies can be treated using different types of treatments. Once your ophthalmologist has diagnosed your condition, he can determine the suitable treatment, depending on your symptoms.
1. Eye drops
Eye drops are one of the most frequent treatments for eye allergies, which the doctor will recommend based on your condition. These drops help eliminate the symptoms while protecting the eyes from any risk factors.
2. Medications
Depending on your doctor’s diagnosis, he might prescribe some medications. It is strongly advised to avoid taking the medication without a prescription.
- Antihistamines help reduce the amount of histamine in the body when it gets in contact with an allergen.
- Decongestants are effective as one of the red-itchy eye treatments.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce and treat eye allergy symptoms.
- Corticosteroid is usually prescribed by your doctor in case of severe eye allergy. It helps prevent the long-term effects.
On the other hand, taking some preventive measures can help reduce eye allergies, such as:
- Avoid allergens as much as possible you can especially seasonal allergens.
- Wear your sunglasses when you go out to avoid the sun’s effects on your eyes
- Apply cold packs to reduce the eyes’ redness and swelling. They are effective as an itchy eye treatment.
If you have any concerns or want to know more about eye allergy treatment, book your appointment today with one of our ophthalmologists by calling toll-free 800 (NOVO) 6686 or clicking the live chat icon at the bottom of the screen.
