Getting Help with Eye Allergies from Your Eye Doctor
Many of us who think about the problems related to allergies think about how sneezing and a runny nose, but allergies affect the eyes too. Eyes start to water, become red and swollen, itch, and burn. The expert eye doctors at the Epic Vision Eye Centers, can help you find relief from the symptoms you experience with your allergies.
Why Do I Have Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Symptoms of eye allergies are the result of your eyes reaction to an allergen. When your eyes come into contact with an allergen or irritant, your eyes release histamine to fight it. This reaction causes the itchiness, burning, redness, and the swelling you experience.
What Allergens Cause Eye Allergies?
It is important to realize that eye allergies do not spread from person to person, but there is a long list of irritants that can cause eye allergies. These allergens can partially be divided by inside and outside irritants, even though some cross lines.
- Inside allergens:
Mold
Perfumes, cosmetics
Pet dander
Dust
Dust mites
Cleaning chemicals
- Outside allergens:
Pollen
Grasses
Smoke
Diagnosing and Treating Eye Allergies
Your optometrist will make sure that you do not have an eye infection. It is very important that this distinction is made. Swollen blood vessels on the surface of your eyes usually are an indication of an allergy.
Treatment for your eye allergies could be as simple as over-the-counter eye drops. They will moisten your eyes and wash out allergens. You may choose to use eye drops containing an antihistamine. This will help to reduce the redness and relieve the itchiness of eye allergies. If your eye doctor thinks it is necessary, he or she may provide you a prescription for medicated eye drops.
Of course, the best way to get relief from eye allergies is to avoid what is causing your allergy in the first place. This may require you to stay inside more during certain times of the year. Be sure to change heating and air conditioner filters in your home as well.
Epic Vision Eye Center Helps with Eye Allergies
The quality optometry practiced at Epic Vision Eye Centers located throughout Missouri and Kansas can help you find relief from your eye allergies. Our eye doctors have much training and experience in treating patients. Call us for an appointment and let our personal attention provide the care you need.