Eye Allergies

Symptoms of Eye Allergies

The symptoms of eye allergies vary depending on the person and the type of allergy. Some people may experience dryness, itching, burning, or stinging in the eyes. Additional symptoms like blurred vision, a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy throat may occur. Symptoms of eye allergies can get worse or better depending on several factors, including time of year, changes in weather, and other environmental factors. Seasonal allergens that irritate your nose often have the same effect on your eyes.

Causes of Eye Allergies

Eye allergies are caused by a reaction to something that is typically harmless, such as dust mites. This allergen is primarily in the home, though some people can be allergic to something that they come into contact with regularly outside of their homes. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases says that dry eye allergy is quite common due to a dry environment or using a dry air conditioner in the summer months.

Treatments for Eye Allergies

Eye allergies can be uncomfortable and annoying, but our optometrist has ways to manage them. We may recommend one or both of the following treatment methods for eye allergies:
● Eyedrops - Eyedrops are the most common way to treat eye allergies. They help wash out pollen, dust mites, and other irritants that may be the cause of your dry eyes. You can purchase over-the-counter eye drops at your local pharmacy without a prescription. However, our optometrist may prescribe eye drops instead of over-the-counter as these products can worsen symptoms for certain patients.
● Medications - Our optometrist may have you take antihistamines to help dry up your runny nose and other allergy symptoms. The dryness is temporary, but it can help you feel better in the meantime. We might also prescribe an anti-inflammatory drug to ease eye allergy symptoms. If antihistamines and eye drops are not working, you may be given a steroid nasal spray or cream to quell your dry eyes.