How to Get Relief From Eye Allergies

People who have allergies are often quick to seek help for symptoms such as sneezing, sniffling, and nasal congestion. But allergies can affect the eyes, too. They can make your eyes red, itchy, burning, and watery, and cause swollen eyelids.

The same treatments and self-help strategies that ease nasal allergy symptoms work for eye allergies, too.

Also called ocular allergies or allergic conjunctivitis, they pose little threat to eyesight other than temporary blurriness. But infections and other conditions can cause the same symptoms, so call your doctor if your symptoms don’t improve.

Causes

Like all allergies, eye allergies happen when your body overreacts to something. The immune system makes antibodies that cause your eyes to release histamine and other substances. This causes itching and red, watery eyes. Some people also have nasal allergies.

Types

There are two types of eye allergies: seasonal, which are more common, and perennial.

Seasonal allergies happen at certain times of the year — usually early spring through summer and into autumn. Triggers are allergens in the air, commonly pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds, as well as spores from molds.

Continued

Perennial allergies happen year-round. Major causes include dust mites, feathers (in bedding), and animal (pet) dander. Other substances, including perfumes, smoke, chlorine, air pollution, cosmetics, and certain medicines, can also play a role.

Sometimes, it’s easy to tell what causes an allergy — for example, if symptoms strike when you go outside on a windy, high-pollen-count day, or when a pet climbs onto your lap. If your trigger isn’t clear, a doctor can give you tests to find out.

Do-It-Yourself Allergy Relief

The first thing to do is to avoid your triggers.

Stay indoors when pollen counts are highest, usually in mid-morning and early evening. Close the windows and run the air conditioner (window fans can draw in pollen and mold spores).

When you go out, wear eyeglasses or big sunglasses to block pollen from your eyes. Driving? Keep the windows closed and run the air conditioner.

To limit your exposure to dust mites, use special pillow covers that keep allergens out. Wash bedding frequently in hot water. If your mattress is more than a few years old, consider getting a new one.

Continued

Clean floors with a damp mop. Sweeping tends to stir up rather than get rid of allergens. Especially if you have a pet, consider replacing rugs and carpets, which trap and hold allergens, with hardwood, tile, or other flooring materials that are easier to clean. Choose blinds instead of curtains.

To stop mold from growing inside your home, keep the humidity under 50%. You may need to use a dehumidifier, especially in a damp basement. Clean the dehumidifier regularly. And use a bleach solution when you tidy up your kitchen and bathrooms.

If your pet is a trigger, keep it out of your bedroom.

Don’t rub your eyes. That’s likely to make symptoms worse. Use cool compresses instead.

Allergy Medications for Eyes

Over-the-counter and prescription medications can give short-term relief of some eye allergy symptoms. Prescription treatments can provide both short- and long-term help.

Sterile saline rinses and eye lubricants can soothe irritated eyes and help flush out allergens.

Continued

Decongestant eye drops can curb eye redness by constricting blood vessels in the eyes. These drops tend to sting a bit, and they don’t relieve all symptoms. What’s more, their effect tends to be short-lived. If you use them for more than a few days, it can cause ”rebound” eye redness.

eye drops containing ketotifen can ease allergy symptoms for up to 12 hours. They won’t cause rebound redness even with long-term use.

Refrigerating your eye drops may bring more relief.

In addition to red, itchy eyes from allergies, many people also have other symptoms, like a stuffy, runny nose. If you do, nasal steroid sprays can help your eyes and nose. Over-the-counter options include Flonase, Rhinocort, and Nasacort. Several others are also available with a doctor’s prescription.

Oral antihistamines can also help. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) tend to be less sedating than some older drugs, and they provide longer-lasting relief. Keep in mind, though, that oral antihistamines do dry the eyes and can make a dry eye condition worse. 

If you need more help, a doctor can prescribe other eye drops. For severe or persistent cases, immunotherapy (allergy shots or under-the-tongue tablets) can also help.

Itchy Eye Triggers and Treatments

When you say, “I have allergies,” people expect you to sneeze. But your nose isn’t the only part of your body that gets hit during an allergy attack. You can also have red, swollen, and itchy eyes.

The usual suspects — pollen, dust mites, pet dander, feathers, and other indoor or outdoor allergens — can set off eye allergy symptoms. To treat them, find out what triggers them and stay ahead of the symptoms. Eye drops and other medications can bring relief.

Eye Allergies Triggers

Eye allergies are also known as “allergic conjunctivitis.” Just like any other allergic reaction, they are caused by a misfiring of the immune system, the body’s natural defense mechanism.

When you have allergies, your body reacts to things that aren’t really harmful, like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. It releases histamine, a chemical that causes swelling and inflammation. The blood vessels in your eyes swell and your eyes get red, teary, and itchy.

You can be allergic to:

• Pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees. These are the most common kinds of eye allergies and are called seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
• Dust, pet dander, and other indoor allergens. These eye allergies last year-round and are called chronic (perennial) conjunctivitis.
• Makeup, perfume, or other chemicals can trigger eye allergies called contact conjunctivitis.
• An allergy to contact lenses, called giant papillary conjunctivitis, can cause bumps on the inside of your eyelid, making your eyes sensitive and red both with and without wearing your contact lenses.

Symptoms to Watch For

You may start to have symptoms as soon as the eyes come in contact with the allergen, or you may not have symptoms for two to four days.

Symptoms of eye allergies include:

• Red, irritated eyes
• Itchiness
• Tearing or runny eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Soreness, burning, or pain
• Sensitivity to light

Usually you’ll also have other allergy symptoms, such as a stuffy, runny nose and sneezing.

Treating Eye Allergies

Some of the same medicines you use for nasal allergies work for eye allergies. For quick relief, over-the-counter eye drops and pills can help.

Antihistamine Pills and Eye Drops

Antihistamine pills and liquids work by blocking histamine to relieve watery, itchy eyes. They include cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), or  loratadine (Alavert, Claritin), among others. Some may cause drowsiness.

Antihistamine eye drops work well for itchy, watery eyes. You may need to use them several times a day, but don’t use the over-the-counter kinds for more than 2-3 days. Prescription kinds include azelastine hydrochloride (Optivar), cetirizine ophthalmic (Zerviate), emedastine difumarate (Emadine), levocabastine (Livostin), and olopatadine (Patanol).

Continued

They are often combined with other kinds of drops, including some that shrink swollen blood vessels in your eye. You shouldn’t use these kinds of drops, called decongestant or “get the red out” drops, for more than a few days at a time. They can also lead to a rebound redness if used too frequently. Don’t use them at all if you have glaucoma.

Over-the-counter antihistamines include ketotifen fumarate (Alaway, Claritin Eye, Refresh Eye Itch Relief, or Zaditor).

Other Kinds of Eye Drops

Some eye drops work only when you take them before your symptoms hit. They take longer to work than antihistamine eye drops, but the effects last longer. Sometimes they are combined with antihistamines. These eye drops need a prescription:

Ketorolac (Acular or Acuvail0 is another kind of eye drop. It relieves itchy eyes, usually in about an hour. It can sting or burn at first.

Continued

Steroid eye drops like loteprednol (Alrex and Lotemax) treat severe, long-lasting eye allergies. They are usually used only for a short time because they can cause serious side effects.

If you’re still having symptoms, your doctor may suggest allergy shots. With allergy shots, your body is exposed to increasing amounts of an allergen over time and gradually gets used to it. Depending on the cause of your allergies, oral tablets or drops that work much like allergy shots could be used instead.

Other Ways to Reduce Symptoms

• Wear sunglasses when you go outside. They’ll block some of the pollen and other outdoor allergens from getting into your eyes.
• Rinse your eyes with preservative-free saline water or apply a cold, wet washcloth. 
• Use lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) to moisten dry eyes and wash out allergens.
• Take out your contact lenses.
• Don’t rub your eyes, no matter how much they itch. It will only make the irritation worse.

Call your doctor right away if you develop severe eye pain or vision loss.

Learn More About Eye Allergies

Millions of Americans have allergies. Most of those millions have symptoms involving their eyes.

A common eye allergy affects the clear layer of skin that covers the front of your eyes and the inside of your lids (called the conjunctiva). Your doctor may refer to it as allergic conjunctivitis.

There are several different causes for this. But for the most part, if you’re allergic to a particular substance and then come into contact with it, you have an allergic reaction like itching and sneezing.

Causes of Eye Allergies

That layer of skin covering the front of your eyes? It’s the same type of skin that lines the inside of your nose. Because these two areas are so similar, the same things can trigger allergic reactions in both places.

Common triggers include:

• Pollen
• Grass
• Weeds
• Dust
• Pet dander

If you have seasonal allergies, you generally have symptoms for a short time. You may be bothered in the spring by tree pollen, in the summer by grass pollen, or in the fall by weed pollen. The symptoms tend to clear up during other times of the year, especially in the winter.

If you have “perennial allergies,” your symptoms probably last all year. You’re likely allergic to indoor things, like dust mites, cockroaches, and pet dander. Seasonal outdoor allergens may make things worse if you’re sensitive to them, too.

Symptoms

Seasonal and perennial allergies have identical symptoms and, almost always, itching lets you know you’re having an allergic reaction.

Along with itchy eyes, you may have:

When to Get Medical Care

Your symptoms should improve on their own if you know what you’re allergic to and you can avoid it.

But if you don’t know what causes your allergy, skin testing by an allergist can help figure it out.

If you still don’t know or you can’t avoid the cause, a doctor who specializes in eye care and surgery — an ophthalmologist or optometrist — may be able to help.

If you have seasonal allergies, make an appointment with them prior to your allergic season. This will let you start treatment before your symptoms kick in.

If you have perennial allergies, routine appointments may be helpful. Occasional flare-ups may mean you need to see them more often. It might also help to get a consultation with an allergist.

Questions to Ask the Doctor

• Is there a specific cause of my eye allergy?
• How can I ease my symptoms?

What to Expect

Your eye doctor may be able to diagnose your eye allergy based on the symptoms you’ve told them about. They’ll check your eyes to rule out other problems.

They’ll examine the inner lining of the eye lids using a microscope called a slit lamp. They’ll be looking for dilated blood vessels and swelling.

In very rare cases, they may scrape that layer of skin that covers the front of your eyes to check for something called eosinophils. They’re cells that are commonly linked to allergies but are only found in the most severe cases.

Treating Your Own Eye Allergies

Get off to a good start by avoiding whatever you’re allergic to. You can also try these tips:

Minimize clutter where allergens can collect. Limit pillows, bedding, draperies, and other linens, such as dust ruffles and canopies. Also, keep knick-knacks to a minimum, since they can collect dust.

Continued

Go with as little carpeting as possible. The carpet can harbor dust mites.

Clean regularly and thoroughly. That’ll help limit dust and mold.

Get rid of any water leaks and standing water. Both encourage mold growth.

Use barriers and filters. Shield mattresses and pillows with covers that block allergens. Use allergen filters in both the furnace and the air conditioner in your home. Also, be sure to change them regularly. Keep outdoor allergens outdoors by keeping windows and doors closed.

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy or possible to avoid the things that trigger your allergies. If that’s the case for you, these at-home treatments may give you some relief:

Apply cool compresses to your eyes to ease the allergic reaction.

Use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops.

Use over-the-counter medications, like allergy eye drops and oral antihistamines for mild allergies.

Try not to rub your eyes, since that can make your symptoms worse.

Medical Treatment for Eye Allergies

Lots of over-the-counter meds, like allergy or antihistamine eye drops as well as antihistamines you take by mouth, can help against mild allergies. Follow the directions on the packages exactly.

Continued

Prescription eye drops usually work well, and most don’t have side effects. Many of them are taken twice a day, and can be used to prevent an allergic reaction. Some common ones include:

Steriods are generally used  to obtain initial relief, particularly bad allergic response. Your doctor might prescribe corticosteroids if your allergies are severe. They come with a risk of side effects. Some common corticosteroids used for eye allergies are:

Next Steps and Follow-up

For mild cases of seasonal or perennial allergies, annual follow-up visits with your eye doctor are a good idea. You may need to go more often for a severe case.

Eye Allergies | Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

The primary types of eye allergy are seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, atopic keratoconjunctivitis, contact allergic conjunctivitis and giant papillary conjunctivitis.

Seasonal and perennial allergic conjunctivitis

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) is by far the most common type of eye allergy. Patients experience symptoms in spring, summer or fall, depending on the type of plant pollens in the air. Typical symptoms include:

• Itching
• Redness
• Burning
• Clear, watery discharge

People with SAC may have chronic dark circles (known as allergic shiners) under their eyes. The eyelids may be puffy, and bright lights may be bothersome. SAC symptoms often accompany the runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion associated with hay fever and other seasonal allergies. The itching may be so bothersome that patients rub their eyes frequently, making symptoms worse and potentially causing infection.

Perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC), as its name implies, occurs year-round. Symptoms are the same as with SAC, but tend to be milder. They are caused by reactions to dust mites, mold, pet dander or other household allergens, rather than pollen.

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is a more serious eye allergy than SAC or PAC. While it can occur year-round, symptoms may worsen seasonally. It primarily occurs in boys and young men; about 75 percent of patients also have eczema or asthma. Symptoms include:

• Itching
• Significant tearing and production of thick mucus
• The feeling of having something in the eye (foreign body sensation)
• Aversion to light (photophobia)

If left untreated, vernal keratoconjunctivitis can impair vision.

Atopic keratoconjunctivitis

This type of allergy primarily affects older patients – mostly men with a history of allergic dermatitis. Symptoms of atopic keratoconjunctivitis can occur year-round and are similar to those of vernal keratoconjunctivitis:

• Severe itching
• Burning
• Redness
• Significant production of thick mucus that, after sleep, may cause the eyelids to stick together

If left untreated, atopic keratoconjunctivitis can result in scarring of the cornea and its delicate membrane.

Contact allergic conjunctivitis

This can result from irritation by contact lenses or by the proteins from tears that bind to the surface of the lens. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Itching
• Mucous discharge
• Lens discomfort

Giant papillary conjunctivitis

Associated with wearing contact lenses, giant papillary conjunctivitis is a severe form of contact allergic conjunctivitis in which individual fluid sacs, or papules, form in the upper lining of the inner eyelid. Symptoms include:

• Itching
• Puffiness
• Tearing
• Mucous discharge
• Blurred vision
• Poor tolerance for wearing contact lenses
• Foreign body sensation

Eye Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment

To provide proper treatment, your ophthalmologist will check to see if you have an eye infection or allergic conjunctivitis. They can usually diagnose allergic conjunctivitis easily. They will use a slit-lamp microscope to check for signs of eye allergies, such as swollen blood vessels on the surface of the eye. They will talk to you about your medical history and your family’s history of allergies.

Your ophthalmologist may test for a specific type of white blood cell in your eye. They will do this if your allergies are bad or if it is not clear that you have allergic conjunctivitis. They will gently scrape a tiny area of the conjunctiva and test this tissue for those white blood cells.

How are eye allergies treated?

The key to treating eye allergies is to avoid or limit contact with the substance causing the problem. But you have to know what to avoid. If necessary, an allergist can perform a skin or blood test to help identify the specific allergen(s).

Avoiding allergens

If you are allergic to pollen, avoid going outdoors as much as possible when pollen counts are highest. Pollen counts are usually highest in the mid-morning and early evening. Also, avoid being outdoors when wind blows pollens around. When you are outdoors, sunglasses or eyeglasses can help to prevent pollen from getting into your eyes.

Keep your windows closed and use air conditioning, both in your car and home. This will help lower your exposure to pollen and other irritants while you are inside. Don’t use window fans, as they draw the pollen and other allergens inside. Keep your air conditioning units clean so they won’t cycle allergens inside.

If mold is an allergy trigger for you, recognize that high humidity can cause molds to grow. Aim to keep the humidity level in your home around 30 to 50 percent. Clean high-humidity areas like basements, bathrooms and kitchens often. Consider using a dehumidifier in particularly humid or moist places such as a basement.

If dust at home brings on your allergic conjunctivitis, try to keep dust mites away from your skin. Pay special attention to your bedroom. Use allergen-reducing covers for your bedding and especially for your pillows. Wash your bedding frequently with hot water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit.

When cleaning floors, use a damp mop or rag instead of a dry dust mop or broom to trap the allergens.

If pets are a source of allergies for you, try to keep animals outside of the house as much as possible. It is particularly important not to allow a pet into your bedroom so that you can sleep in an allergen-free room. Consider hardwood or tile floors instead of carpeting, which traps the pet dander. Always wash your hands after touching a pet, and wash clothing that you have worn around pets.

Finally, always avoid rubbing your eyes, which only irritates them more.

Treating eye allergies with eyedrops and medicine

Artificial tears

Artificial tear drops help relieve eye allergies temporarily by washing allergens from the eye. They also relieve dry, irritated eyes by adding moisture. You can use these drops, available without a prescription, up to six times a day. You may use them as often as you need to if they are preservative free.

Decongestants (with or without antihistamines)

Decongestants reduce redness in the eyes from allergies. They are available as over-the-counter eye drops. If the decongestant eye drops you choose include an antihistamine, they can relieve itchiness as well. You should not use these types of eye drops for more than two to three days. Longer-term use actually increases your irritating symptoms.

Oral antihistamines

Oral antihistamines may be somewhat helpful in relieving itchy eyes. But they can make eyes dry and even worsen eye allergy symptoms.

Antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizers

Eye drops with both an antihistamine to relieve itchiness and a mast-cell stabilizer help prevent eye allergies. You use them once or twice a day to relieve itching, redness, tearing and burning. How often you use them depends on which eye drop you choose.

Corticosteroids

Steroid eye drops can help treat chronic and severe eye allergy symptoms such as itching, redness and swelling. They should never be used without medical supervision due to possible serious side effects.

Immunotherapy shots

If symptoms are not controlled by allergen avoidance, eye drops or medicine, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be an option. With immunotherapy, you get shots containing tiny amounts of the allergen. The dose gradually increases over time to help your body become immune to the allergens.

Your doctor can help determine which treatments are best for you.

Puffy and Swollen Eyelid Treatment: Home Remedies

How Bad Can Swollen Eyes Get?

Eye allergies are also known as allergic conjunctivitis, but unlike other forms of conjunctivitis (pink eye), eye allergies are not contagious, notes the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). And eye allergies usually affect both eyes.

In addition to burning or teary, watery eyes, allergies may make you sensitive to light, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). A runny nose, cough, or headache often go hand in hand with eye allergies. The AAFA also adds that your vision may be briefly blurry and you may feel distracted or sluggish and unproductive.

RELATED: Allergy Symptoms and Diagnosis

Tips to Ease Swollen Eyes

Remember, these are your eyes we’re talking about, so check with your doctor or ophthalmologist before you try any treatment. But if you’re looking for relief, consider the following home remedies and medical interventions.

Wash your face. Washing your face is one of the first things you should do to combat itchy, swollen eyes, says Ogbogu. It can help wash away the allergens sticking to your skin and eyelashes.

Rinse out the eyes. “Rinse out the eyes if you can with a little bit of water, and that’s usually helpful,” Ogbogu says. That will loosen the allergens from the inside of your eyes and help to flush them out.

Apply a cold compress. “Cold compresses around the eyes can be helpful with itching and swelling,” says Ogbogu. Soak a towel or washcloth in cold water or refrigerate a damp cloth or eye pillow. Then lie down with the compress across your eyes to let the coolness reduce swollen eyelids.

Try allergy eye drops. Ogbogu suggests trying an over-the-counter eye drop made to soothe itchy, swollen eyes caused by allergies. An ophthalmologist might prescribe an antihistamine eye drop. The AAO cautions that using these drops for more than three days may actually increase irritating symptoms.

Mast cell stabilizer eye drops can also be effective, preventing the release of histamines in your body. Unlike antihistamines, these need to be administered before exposure to an allergen in order to prevent itching, notes the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

The AAO also notes that some people may be allergic to the preservatives in certain lubricating eye drops and suggests using preservative-free formulas if that’s the case.

Take oral medications or get allergy shots. Ogbogu says that over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications, including antihistamines, can provide some relief for milder allergy symptoms, including swollen eyes. In addition to oral medications, allergy shots (immunotherapy) can help keep allergy symptoms under control.

Additionally, an OTC nasal spray called Flonase (fluticasone) is a corticosteroid formulated to relieve itchy, watery eyes along with nasal congestion.

Stay indoors. “Weather conditions play a role,” says Ogbogu. A breezy day with lots of pollen in the air will continually re-expose you to allergens. On days when outdoor allergens are high, stay inside — and save outdoor activities for just after a rain, when fewer allergens fill the air.

It may be challenging, but avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen symptoms.

Ogbogu says some do-it-yourself and home remedies aren’t always a good choice. “If you have intense redness that’s not leaving, you need to go see your doctor.”

And if any of the following occur, you should call your doctor immediately:

• A feeling that there’s something stuck in your eye
• Pain in the eye
• Blurry vision
• Decreased vision

RELATED: 10 Myths About Allergies

Eye (Ocular) Allergy Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Eye Allergy Overview

Also called allergic conjunctivitis or ocular allergy, eye allergy occurs when something you are allergic to irritates the conjunctiva. This is the delicate membrane covering the eye and the inside of the eyelid.

Like all allergies, allergic conjunctivitis starts when the immune system identifies an otherwise harmless substance as an allergen. This causes your immune system to overreact and produce antibodies called Immunoglobulin (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals which cause an allergic reaction. In this case, allergic reactions include eyes that water, itch, hurt or become red or swollen.

The most common causes of allergic conjunctivitis are seasonal allergens such as pollen and mold spores. People with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) normally notice their symptoms worsen when they go outdoors on days with high pollen counts.

Indoor allergens such as dust mites and pet dander can also cause eye allergies year-round. If you suffer from this type of allergy, you may notice your symptoms worsen during certain activities such as cleaning your house or grooming a pet.

Eye allergy symptoms can be very annoying. Yet they pose little threat to eyesight other than temporary blurriness. Unlike conditions such as pink eye, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.

However, red, itchy, burning and puffy eyes can be caused also by infections and other conditions that can threaten eyesight.

Test your knowledge about eye allergies. »

Keep pace with the latest information and connect with others. Join us on Facebook and Twitter.

Eye Allergy Symptoms & Diagnosis

If your symptoms are related to an eye allergy, chances are you will have problems in both eyes.

Typical symptoms include:

•    Watery eyes

•    Itchiness

•    Sensitivity to light

•    Redness

•    Grittiness

•    Eyelid swelling

These symptoms can occur alone or along with allergic rhinitis nasal symptoms. They typically appear shortly after exposure to the allergen.

Symptoms resulting from seasonal outdoor allergens tend to be worse than if your symptoms are due to indoor allergens such as dust mites or pet dander.

Symptoms may be reduced if you are taking allergy medications such as antihistamines, which suppress the allergic reaction.

The first step toward relief from annoying eye allergy symptoms is a proper diagnosis. An allergist / immunologist has specialized training and experience to accurately determine what is causing your symptoms and identify the best treatment approach.

 

Videos: Choosing Wisely »

Eye Allergy Treatment & Management

If indoor allergens are causing your eye allergy symptoms, avoidance is the key to relief. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce dust in your home or try keeping pets out of the bedroom to reduce exposure to their dander.

If pollen and other seasonal allergens are causing your misery, here are a few helpful suggestions:

• Wear a hat with a wide brim to reduce the amount of allergen that blows into the eyes.
• Sunglasses can also help reduce the amount of allergen that lands in the eyes.
• Apply saline eye drops to the eyes after being outdoors to wash away allergens from the ocular lining.

Over-the-counter antihistamine pills and eye drops are often used for short-term treatment of eye allergy symptoms. However, prolonged use of some eye drops may actually make your symptoms worse.

Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications if your symptoms are long-lasting.

Corticosteroid eye drops are effective, but they often have side effects, even when used only for a short time. Use of this medication should be managed by an ophthalmologist due to the risk of side effects, such as glaucoma (increased ocular pressure), cataracts and infection.

Depending on what is causing your eye allergy symptoms, immunotherapy (allergy shots) can be very effective in providing long-term resistance to the triggering allergens.

90,000 Will eye drops or ointment help with allergies? What to do if your eyes itch?

Manifestations of eye allergies, in which redness, itching in the eyes and watery eyes are caused by the same irritants that cause sneezing and runny nose in people with seasonal allergies, are far from uncommon.

In addition to symptoms of sneezing, nasal congestion and a runny nose, itchy eyes, watery eyes, redness of the eyes and swelling of the eyelids also occur in most cases.

In some cases, eye allergies can contribute to the development of conjunctivitis and other eye infections.

If you think you are allergic to your eyes, you will find helpful information below, including advice on how to treat redness, itchy eyes and watery eyes.

Read Also: Get Rid of Eye Bags

What causes eye allergies

Redness, itching in the eyes, watery eyes are the hallmarks and symptoms of allergies.

Allergens are usually harmless substances that cause problems in people prone to allergic reactions. The most common airborne allergens that cause eye allergies are pollen, mold, dust, and pet dander.

Allergies to the eyes can also be caused by a reaction to certain preservative-containing cosmetics or eye drops, including tear substitutes used to treat dry eyes.

Food allergies, as well as allergic reactions to bee stings or other insects, usually cannot match the severity of allergies to airborne substances.

Treating eye allergies

Several approaches are used to relieve eye allergy symptoms, itchy eyes and watery eyes:

Avoid allergens

The best way to control your eye allergy symptoms is to do your best to limit exposure to common allergens your eyes are sensitive.

For example, on days when the concentration of pollen in the air is high, try to go outside as little as possible, and if you have an air conditioner, use it to clean the air. Use high quality filters in your heating system to catch common allergens and replace them regularly.

When going outdoors during allergy season, wear tight-fitting sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen, ragweed, etc., and do not open the windows while driving.

Remove contact lenses

The surface of contact lenses can attract and accumulate airborne allergens, so it is recommended to wear glasses instead of contact lenses during allergy season. Alternatively, consider wearing daily contact lenses; once applied, allergens and debris will not accumulate on the lenses and get into your eyes.

In some cases, it is better to avoid contact lenses altogether, at least until all allergy symptoms have disappeared.In addition, wearing glasses with photochromic lenses can reduce the sensitivity to light caused by allergies as well as protect the eyes from airborne allergens.

Use eye drops

Because eye allergies are common, there are many brands of over-the-counter eye drops designed to relieve symptoms of itchy eyes, redness, and watery eyes caused by allergic reactions.

For relatively mild eye allergy symptoms, over-the-counter eye drops can be quite effective and are often cheaper than prescription eye drops or other medicines.Ask your optometrist to recommend eye drops for your needs.

Ask your doctor about prescription drugs

If allergy symptoms are relatively severe or over-the-counter eye drops are not effective, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications.

Prescription eye drops and oral medications used to relieve eye allergy symptoms include:

Antihistamines

One of the body’s natural reactions to allergies is the release of histamine, a substance that dilates blood vessels and abnormally increases permeability of the walls of blood vessels.

Symptoms caused by the release of histamine include runny nose, itchy eyes, and watery eyes. Antihistamines relieve allergy symptoms by blocking the attachment of histamine to cells that trigger an allergic response.

Decongestants

Decongestants reduce swelling of the nasal passages by making breathing easier. They also reduce the size of the blood vessels in the white membrane (sclera) of the eyes, making redness in the eyes less noticeable. Combinations are also available that contain both antihistamines and decongestants.

Mast Cell Stabilizers

These drugs cause changes that interfere with the release of histamine and related mediators of allergic reactions in histamine-containing cells throughout the body, including the conjunctiva of the eye and eyelids.

The full effect of mast cell stabilizers can take several weeks, so these drugs are best used before allergy season to prevent or reduce the severity of future allergic reactions (but not to treat existing acute allergic symptoms).

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to relieve swelling, inflammation, and other symptoms associated with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (hay fever).

Steroids

In some cases, eye drops containing corticosteroids are prescribed to relieve the symptoms of acute eye allergies. Long-term use of these drugs can cause side effects, including increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and cataracts, so eye drops containing corticosteroids are usually prescribed for short-term use only.

Learn About Immunotherapy

If none of the above measures have been effective, ask your doctor about immunotherapy. This is a treatment in which small amounts of allergens are injected into your bloodstream, which gradually boost your immunity to reduce allergic reactions.

Eye Allergy Self Test

Take this test to find out if you have an eye allergy. Whenever you suspect you have an eye condition that requires treatment, see an optometrist nearby.

• Does your family have any allergies?

• Do your eyes itch often, especially during the spring dusting season?

• Have you ever been diagnosed with conjunctivitis?

• Are you allergic to animals such as cats?

• Do you often use antihistamines and / or decongestants to relieve the symptoms of sneezing, coughing and nasal congestion?

• Does being in an air conditioned room help reduce redness and itching in the eyes during the dusty season?

• Do your eyes start to water when you use certain cosmetics or lotions, or when you smell strong perfume?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, you may have eye allergies.Make an appointment with your optometrist to determine the best course of action for your case.

Allergies to the eyes and contact lenses

Discomfort from contact lenses is a common complaint during allergy season, leading people to wonder if they are allergic to contact lenses.

In some cases, contact lens allergy occurs when a person begins to wear silicone hydrogel contact lenses after successfully wearing standard soft (hydrogel) contact lenses.

Studies have shown that the cause of eye allergies associated with wearing contact lenses is not an allergic reaction to the contact lens itself, but to substances that accumulate on its surface.

When switching to silicone hydrogel contact lenses instead of standard soft contact lenses, keep in mind that the surface and chemical characteristics of the silicone hydrogel lens material may contribute to a higher deposition of allergens than previously used materials, causing eye discomfort.

Many ophthalmologists agree that daily contact lenses are the best choice among soft contact lenses for people prone to eye allergies; single use of such lenses reduces the accumulation of allergens and other contaminants on their surface.

Silicone hydrogel is often the preferred material for this lens type because it allows significantly more oxygen to pass through the lens than conventional soft contact lens materials.

Page updated March 2021

90,000 Allergic reactions to the eyes | Théa

Allergy is the body’s response to contact with an allergen. In fact, this is an enhanced reaction of the immune system to any substance foreign to the body. The eye (eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea) is in direct contact with the environment and therefore is most often prone to allergic reactions. So, about 40-60% of people suffering from allergic diseases show symptoms in the eye area, causing them serious inconvenience.In this section, you will find information on how allergic eye reactions manifest themselves, what are their main causes, and how to carry out treatment and hygiene.

Definition

The main forms of allergic reactions in the eyes are …

Allergic conjunctivitis

The most common form of an allergic reaction in the eyes in adults and children is allergic conjunctivitis, an immune response to contact with an allergen.An allergic reaction affects the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the eyeball (the “white” of the eye).

There are several types of allergic conjunctivitis. Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is caused by hypersensitivity to pollen. With this type, allergic reactions develop in spring and early summer. For the rest of the year, allergy symptoms do not appear.

Year-round allergic conjunctivitis mainly affects adults. It lasts all year round and has nothing to do with seasonal changes.The development of this type of conjunctivitis is associated with the constant presence of the allergen.

This type of environmental reaction can also cause atopic conjunctivitis, which usually presents with general signs of atopy, such as eczema or asthma.

Keratitis

Keratoconjunctivitis is also a type of allergic reaction on the part of the organ of vision. Although rare, it still causes more severe eye damage.

Spring keratoconjunctivitis is a serious form of conjunctivitis in children. It mainly affects boys between the ages of 4 and puberty.

In every second case, this condition is associated with another type of allergic reactions from the eyes, three out of ten patients have a history of atopic disease. This is a hypersensitivity reaction to environmental factors, but a genetic predisposition is also possible.

Allergic reactions on the eyelids

Allergic reactions can appear on the eyelids, most often in the form of eczema, but many factors are often involved in this process.For example, in the case of chronic blepharitis (blepharitis = inflammation of the eyelids) in adults, allergy plays a leading role.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of eye allergic reactions?

Symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis are itching, a foreign body sensation in the eye (“sand” in the eyes), and swollen eyelids. Redness of the eyes is common. These symptoms are often accompanied by manifestations from other organs (rhinitis and other respiratory symptoms).

Symptoms of year-round conjunctivitis are often less severe, but last throughout the year.

Infectious diseases of the cornea of ​​the eye are characterized by lacrimation, pain (sometimes severe) in the eyes and intolerance to light (photophobia).

Reasons

What factors trigger allergies?

A distinction should be made between seasonal and chronic allergens. They have different effects on the body and should be treated separately.

The most common cause of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is pollen. An estimated 10 to 40% of the world’s population suffers from pollen allergies in the spring, and this number has been growing steadily over the past thirty years. Pollen of anemophilous plants, in particular, has a pronounced allergenicity. It is a very light pollen that is produced in significant quantities by plants, carried by the wind and dispersed everywhere. Anemophiles are herbaceous plants that make up an important botanical group.For example, these are forage grasses in gardens, on roadsides, cereals and cereals in agricultural fields. The pollen of some trees is also highly allergenic (birch, cypress, oak).

Other allergens, called “household” allergens, lead to the development of chronic forms of allergic reactions in the eyes. Household allergens include dust mites, house dust, particles of the epidermis, and mold. These allergens are constantly present in the home, so symptoms persist.

Air pollution (ozone, smoke with a large amount of chemicals) can also contribute to the development of allergic reactions, including irritating the mucous membranes of the eyes.

A patient’s history of allergic diseases and atopic symptoms may explain the occurrence of certain eye diseases, as well as reactions to ingredients in cosmetics and contact lenses.

It should be noted that people with food allergies, such as seafood allergies, or allergic reactions to stings or injections (allergy to bee stings or allergic reactions to penicillin) do not experience immediate eye allergy symptoms.

Treatment and eye care

How to relieve eye allergy symptoms?

It is necessary to consult a doctor to prescribe the appropriate treatment. Allergy testing and testing with an allergist may be required. In some cases, an allergist will suggest desensitization, which will slowly reduce symptoms.

It is very important to determine the cause of the allergic reaction in order to further limit contact with the allergen.

To remove the allergen from the surface of the eyes, it is recommended to carry out daily hygiene of the eyelids with specially developed eye products. Use Teagel ^® sterile, hypoallergenic eyelash and eyelash gel morning and evening. It is also convenient to use special wipes for cleansing the eyelids and eyelash edge Blefaklin ^® .

In case of conjunctivitis or keratoconjunctivitis, in addition to daily eyelid hygiene, the doctor will recommend antiallergic treatment to help relieve the symptoms.

To resist household allergens, avoid using carpets, coarse wool, woolen blankets. Clean regularly and change your bedding regularly. Open doors and windows for 15 minutes every day to ventilate the premises. Control the optimal humidity level in the room.

90,000 Treatment of eyelid diseases and eye allergies

Allergy on the eyelids is quite common.The body reacts not only due to the presence of allergens in the air, such as dust particles, pollen, but also when using low-quality cosmetics. Allergens can also enter the body through food or medication.

A person begins to redden the eyes caused by inflammation of the conjunctiva, a rash on the skin around the eyes is possible; edema; itching; tearing; filamentous mucous discharge.

Very often the body’s reaction to pollen is manifested.It appears seasonally. Since pollen is spread by the wind over a distance of 300 km, it is difficult to independently determine which plant has an allergic reaction. It is necessary to contact a specialist.

At the first signs of an allergic reaction, redness of the eyes occurs, which develops into allergic conjunctivitis. If the disease is not treated, if the patient’s contact with the source of allergy is not limited, then the situation is aggravated, there is swelling, lacrimation, photophobia, burning sensation, “sand” in the eyes.Allergic rhinitis may also appear. It is better to start treatment when the first signs of allergy appear.

Treatment of eyelid allergies.

It is important to identify the allergen. If possible, it is necessary to limit contact with allergens. If this is not possible, then medications are used to alleviate the patient’s condition.

Antihistamines (tablets – affect the body as a whole, drops – topically) block the release of histamines in the body, which cause the clinical manifestation of allergy symptoms.Also, in order to reduce edema and inflammation, corticosteroid drugs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. There are drugs that narrow blood vessels and relieve eye redness and eye swelling – decongestants. They are addictive and the effect of the use of these drugs goes away after the drug is discontinued. All medications have side effects and must be selected by a doctor.

Allergy is a progressive disease. Therefore, it is important to treat it under the supervision of an experienced physician.

treatment, symptoms and causes, types

In this article we will tell you:

The environment contains a huge number of particles of different origin. City air “presents” us with exhaust gases, factory smoke, reagents. Outside the city, the pollen content in the air increases. Coming home, we are faced with particles of dust, animal hair, bird fluff, cosmetics and household chemicals, mushroom spores, etc.The list can be long, the main thing is that all these microscopic substances can cause allergies. And in many cases – in the eye area.

Most often, when an allergy appears in the eyes, experts talk about allergic dermatitis and conjunctivitis. Let us consider in more detail the symptoms, types and methods of treatment of these diseases.

Causes of allergic conditions

Anatomical and physiological features of the eyes contribute to the rapid manifestation of allergic reactions.Open mucosa, proximity and connection with the nasal cavity, which is so sensitive to allergens: all these factors contribute to the rapid development of the disease.

The main causes of allergic eye diseases:

• air contaminated with allergens. Plant pollen, indoor, industrial or office dust, mold spores and other airborne particles are often the cause of eye allergies.
• food allergies.An eaten food product with increased sensitivity of the body to the ingredients included in the composition can cause, among other things, symptoms of eye allergies.

• allergy to medicines. Allergies can even occur to medicines prescribed by a doctor, and sometimes to medicines for allergies.

• contact allergy. New eye cream, serum, eyeshadow or mascara and other cosmetics cause allergic symptoms to appear quickly.
• allergic to the sun and cold. The sensitivity of the body to weather conditions is often reflected in the condition of the eyelids and eyeballs.
• the use of unsuitable contact means for correcting vision – soft or hard contact lenses, as well as their care products.

Allergic eye diseases: symptoms

This group of diseases is characterized by common symptoms. Among them:

• hyperemia of the whites of the eyes;
• redness and swelling of the upper and lower eyelids, characteristic bags under the eyes;
• swelling of the conjunctiva;
• itching and numbness in the eyelids;
• profuse, uncontrolled lacrimation;
• skin changes in case of allergies around the eyes: the appearance of abrasions, peeling, rashes;
• increased mucus production.

Symptoms of allergic eye damage

The listed symptoms – depending on the degree of the disease – may be more pronounced or weaker. Sometimes the allergy to the eyes is so strong that the itching becomes unbearable, painful for the patient – and then, of course, the person quickly turns to the doctor. However, if the symptoms are erased and feel like a little discomfort, a visit to a specialist can be delayed indefinitely.And in vain: the condition can and should be monitored under the supervision of an ophthalmologist, otherwise complications are possible.

Types of allergic eye diseases

Experts distinguish several types of this disease.

Allergic dermatitis

Allergic dermatitis of the eyelids is an inflammation of the skin of the area under the influence of allergens. It occurs on the upper or lower eyelid, leading to thinning of the already delicate skin, deepening of wrinkles, coarsening, and early aging.If dermatitis is not treated, other inflammatory diseases of the eye can develop – blepharitis, keratitis, etc. In addition, if you are allergic to the eyelids, scars may appear.

With this dermatitis, allergies occur under and above the eyes. The skin itches, reddens, cracks, flakes, there is a burning sensation.

Allergic dermatitis can be delayed and immediate. In the first case, symptoms appear only 6-12 hours after exposure to the allergen.In the second – after 15-30 minutes. The delayed form lasts longer: up to several weeks, the immediate form – it goes away a couple of hours after the exposure to the allergen has ceased.

Allergic conjunctivitis

A type of disease, which affects about 20% of people, is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva of an allergic nature. Often caused by airborne allergens.

With allergic conjunctivitis, there is a painful burning sensation, itching in one (rarely) or both eyes.The membrane of the eye turns red, swells, secretion increases. From allergies, the eyes are swollen and watery. Visual acuity usually does not change.

Experts distinguish between seasonal and year-round forms of allergic conjunctivitis. The seasonality of the disease is due to the flowering of grasses and trees, therefore seasonal, it is also called hay fever, conjunctivitis is usually associated with the spring-summer period.

The risk of its appearance is influenced by such factors as: the ecological situation in the region, climate, biological characteristics of the place of residence (remoteness of the house or apartment from parks, gardens, fields), as well as the individual characteristics of the patient’s body.

In the year-round form, irritation is caused by allergens that a person encounters day after day: pet hair or dander, book dust, dust mites, etc. Such conjunctivitis often becomes chronic, the only way to get rid of it is to detect and completely stop contact with the source of the allergen.

Spring Qatar

This is one of the varieties of allergic conjunctivitis or keratoconjunctivitis.This disease affects more often boys than girls, and develops, as the name implies, in the spring. It is speculated that it may be caused by the sensitivity of the eyes to ultraviolet rays. In addition to the “classic” itching and lacrimation, the disease has characteristic symptoms – photophobia and papillary, in appearance resembling a cobblestone pavement, growths on the conjunctiva and around the limbus.

Treatment of allergic eye lesions

Therapy for allergic eye lesions should be under the supervision of a specialist.The doctor will prescribe antihistamines – tablets or drops.

You may also need a hormonal treatment to relieve itchy and swollen eyes, or antimicrobials if you have an infection. The main thing in treatment is to identify and prevent subsequent contact with the allergen. For example, if an allergy is caused by an unsuitable contact lens material, the specialist will be able to choose a different pair for you, as well as give recommendations on the choice of care products and moisturizing eye drops.

90,000 Eye allergies: causes, symptoms, similar diseases

Red cornea, tears, burning, pain in the eyes. Perhaps there is no person who, at least once in his life, has not encountered these symptoms of conjunctivitis, that is, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye. It can be caused by eye allergies, bacterial or viral infections.

Depending on this, allergic, viral or bacterial conjunctivitis is isolated.Their manifestations are mostly similar, but there are features that help in establishing the diagnosis:

• Clear, clear discharge from the eye (or eyes) indicates a viral or allergic cause of symptoms.
• Itching is a symptom of an allergic reaction, which can also be indicated by swelling of the eyelids.
• If the discharge contains pus, it is usually a symptom of a bacterial infection.
• Slight discomfort or frequent burning with excessive lacrimation may be caused by dry eyes.
• Decreased vision, discomfort in bright sunlight (photophobia), and pain are indicative of a bacterial infection or other serious condition that should be determined by the ophthalmologist.

Conjunctivitis: allergic and not only

But back to allergic conjunctivitis, which is also called eye allergy. It develops when the body’s immune system becomes sensitive and overreacts to substances from the external environment, such as pollen , dust, or animal dander.

Upon contact with antibodies fixed on mast cells, histamine is released on the mucous membrane of the eye. This leads to an increase in the permeability of small vessels, as a result of which the eyes begin to itch, redden and become watery.

At the same time, the intensity of the symptoms of eye allergies can vary from mild, when the eyes are slightly red, to severe, in which there is a deterioration in vision.

An allergic reaction (including anaphylaxis) to food, insect bites or medications can also cause eye symptoms with swelling, itching and redness of the conjunctiva and soft tissues around the eyes.

The same symptoms can occur when eating food containing monosodium glutamate or sodium metabisulfite (preservative). However, this is not a real allergic reaction and therefore the symptoms will not be as severe.

The most common type of allergic conjunctivitis is seasonal, which occurs when trees, grasses and weeds are dusty.

On the other hand, eye allergies caused by pet dandruff, dust mites , chemicals or fungal spores can occur at any time throughout the year.

Also, allergic conjunctivitis can develop in people who wear contact lenses, mostly soft. It can be caused either directly by the material from which the lenses are made, liquid for the lenses or the protein of tears deposited on their surface.

Contact allergy to the eyes can also be caused by cosmetics, primarily face creams.

Another reason is antibiotics (especially neomycin) and the preservative thiomersal, which is used in eye drops.

How to prevent eye allergies

The first step in reducing the manifestations of allergic conjunctivitis is to avoid the allergens that cause it.

When it comes to substances that are contained in the air, you must:

• Stay at home whenever possible during dusting of allergic plants, especially in the midday and morning hours.
• Avoid the use of ventilators on the windows so as not to draw in pollen and fungal spores into the house.
• Wear glasses or sunglasses outdoors to minimize exposure to pollen.
• Avoid touching your eyes.
• Use special creams to reduce itching and inflammation.

If the allergen is indoors, it is recommended:

• Keep windows closed and use an air conditioner in your car and home. At the same time, air conditioners must also be kept clean.
• Use anti-mite covers or special acaricidal products for pillows, blankets and mattresses.
• Wash bed linen frequently using hot water (at least + 60 ° C).
• To limit the effects of fungal spores, keep your home’s humidity low (30-50%) and clean your bathroom, kitchen and basement regularly.
• Use a dehumidifier, especially in the basement and other humid places. If fungus is visible on walls and / or furniture, household appliances, clean it with detergent and 5% bleach solution.
• When cleaning, use a damp cloth or mop.

For animal allergies:

• Wash your hands immediately after petting an animal. Wash clothing that you have been in contact with it.
• If the animal lives in your home, try to keep it in a separate room, or at least keep it out of your bedroom.
• Close the ducts to your bedroom if you have central heating or cooling. Replace carpeting with wood, tiles or linoleum that won’t get stuck in hair.

As for the specific treatment of eye allergies, only specialists – an allergist and / or ophthalmologist – can prescribe it, and only after confirming the diagnosis. The most effective way to diagnose allergies is the ALEX molecular test.

Allergies can be treated

If testing reveals that you are susceptible to weed pollen, animal allergens, fungal mold, or dust mites, your doctor may suggest allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) for treatment.It is also called allergenic immunotherapy (AIT). After a course of such treatment, allergies usually recede for many years, or even forever.

For treatment to be effective, it needs high quality drugs. In particular, the allergens of the Spanish company Inmunotek, available in Ukraine, have this.

Only a doctor can choose the optimal course of AIT for you.

Eye allergy and corneal inflammation

In addition to inflammation of the mucous membrane, eye allergies can also cause inflammation of the cornea.It contains very few blood vessels and is rarely involved in an allergic reaction.

However, there are a number of reasons due to which small punctate defects of the cornea occur. This condition is called epithelial keratitis and is usually caused by drugs and chemicals.

For example, topical ophthalmic agents such as neomycin, idoxuridine, atropine and its derivatives, thiomersal and some local anesthetics.

There are several allergic conditions associated with the cornea.

Atopic keratoconjunctivitis

Joint inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea, most often associated with atopic dermatitis (eczema) – atopic keratoconjunctivitis – usually leads to red, scaly skin of the eyelids and watery eyes.

The conjunctiva can be edematous, red, with transparent or purulent discharge.

This condition can persist for many years and causes severe photophobia, watery eyes and itching. If the damage is not properly treated, scarring of the conjunctiva can occur.

Another danger of atopic keratoconjunctivitis is a common secondary infection with Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to infection of the eyelash follicles.

Keratoconus

Congenital cone-shaped thinning of the cornea, often associated with atopic dermatitis – keratoconus. Vision with such a pathology deteriorates due to the different thickness of the cornea.

Contact lenses may be required. However, their use can be associated with certain problems: both soft (to a lesser extent) and hard lenses can irritate the inflamed conjunctiva.

Atopic cataract

Atopic cataract occurs in children and young people. In 8-10% of people with this disease, it may be associated with a severe form of atopic dermatitis.

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis

Severe seasonal disease that usually affects both eyes and occurs mainly in children – vernal keratoconjunctivitis.

It results in nipple-shaped protrusions, often described as pebbles, on the inner surface of the upper eyelid, as well as a constant discharge of thick mucus.

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is often associated with allergic rhinitis , atopic dermatitis or asthma . It may be associated with a single allergen, but more commonly with multiple sensitivities.

In most cases, the disease begins in late childhood and is more common in boys than girls. The prevalence of this disease between the sexes is equalized after the 20-year milestone, and at the age of 30+, pathology is rare.It usually lasts 5 to 10 years.

More common in tropical and temperate regions. Sleeping in an air-conditioned room, ice packs and cold compresses can help improve your condition.

With such a disease, it is advisable, if possible, to move to a region with a cool climate.

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis

As for viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, unlike allergic, these diseases are contagious.To prevent the spread of infection, observe the following guidelines:

• Use a new, clean towel or tissue each time you dry your face and eyes.
• Wash your hands as often as possible, including after sneezing or coughing.
• Avoid touching your eyes. If you have done so, wash your hands immediately.
• Avoid eye makeup during illness, as bacteria can lodge in cosmetics. Never share your makeup with others, just like you don’t share your toothbrush.
• Follow the proper contact lens care as recommended by your ophthalmologist.

Eye allergies – symptoms, causes and treatment of an allergic reaction in adults

Number of views: 98 499

Date of last update: 03/22/2021

Average reading time: 7 minutes

Contents :

Eye symptoms of allergies
Classification of types of allergies
Why eyes swell
What happens if allergies are not treated
Possible treatment regimens for allergies
Benefits of using VISIN® Allergy

Allergy is a specific reaction of the body to the action of an irritant.Usually this disease makes itself felt in childhood. Much less often, signs of allergy first appear in adults. One of the most frequent “targets” of this ailment is the skin and mucous membranes, and allergic reactions often occur in the eyes. This is because the visual organs are directly exposed to airborne stimuli. These include animal hair, house dust, pollen, mold spores, etc. Often there is eye irritation due to cosmetics (mascara, eyeliner, pencil and other makeup products).

Back to Contents

Allergy Eye Symptoms

Symptoms arise in response to the irritation of an allergen. First, inflammation of the conjunctiva appears, which develops due to vasodilation and increased blood flow. Outwardly, it looks like eye redness. In most cases, this stage becomes just the beginning, followed by another symptom – edema. Often with allergies, eyes are watery, itching occurs.

Up to content

Classification of allergies

Seasonal. In this case, the symptoms of an allergy to the eyes appear at a certain time of the year, usually during the spring and summer months. As a rule, it is caused by plant pollen. The most frequent provocateur is the flowering of oak, birch, bluegrass, ash, dandelion, ragweed, timothy, rye. Moreover, these plants do not necessarily have to grow close to a person. The wind can carry pollen up to 50-300 km, so it can be difficult to independently determine what exactly caused the allergy symptoms in the eyes.

Year-round. This view does not depend on the season. In this case, chronic eye allergy may occur, because the irritating factor is often near the person all the time. Allergens in this case can be skin scales, animal hair, mold spores, waste products of dust mites. Sometimes allergy symptoms appear after taking certain medications or using household chemicals.

Up to content

Why eyes swell

The longer the mucous membrane of the eyes comes into contact with the allergen, the more pronounced the swelling becomes.This is due to the fact that liquid is pulled up to it, which accumulates in the skin of the eyelids, where the largest amount of adipose tissue is observed. In addition, lymphocytic tissue located deep in the conjunctiva can give such a reaction. In this case, local edema is formed, which looks like a multitude of follicular tubercles. Such changes in the lymphocytic tissue lead to a weakening of the protective functions, since the lacrimal glands located in the area of ​​edema cannot work in the same mode. Such a violation is fraught with the penetration of viruses and bacteria, which lead to the development of inflammation.

Up to the table of contents

What happens if the allergy is not treated

The most common manifestation of eye mucosa allergy is conjunctivitis, which occurs due to a local inflammatory reaction. However, it is very rarely the only symptom. In the future, there is swelling, redness of the eyelids. If you do not isolate a person from the allergen, photophobia and mucous discharge from the eyes may be added to the listed symptoms. Allergies often cause gritty eyes.Due to the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the nasal ducts, allergic rhinitis can join the symptoms of allergy in the eyes. In order not to start this chain reaction, it is important to take timely measures to alleviate the very first signs of the disease.

Up to content

Possible allergy treatment regimens

An integrated approach. Diagnostics is of great importance in choosing a treatment regimen. Identification of an allergen allows you to exclude or minimize contact with it.So, if it is pollen, it is better not to go outside in the morning, because during this period its concentration in the air is highest. On the contrary, doji nails pollen to the ground, so allergy sufferers feel better after it. If contact with the allergen cannot be completely excluded, measures should be taken to alleviate the manifestations of the disease. Since, in addition to the occurrence of puffiness, allergies are accompanied by many other symptoms, the treatment of this disease should be aimed at getting rid of each of them.Measures should be taken not only during an exacerbation. You can help your eyes before the first symptoms appear, especially if the allergy is seasonal. Moisturizing drops may be suitable for these purposes. You should also rinse your eyes with clean water as often as possible in case of allergies.

Use of antihistamines. Histamine is a substance produced in the body that is one of the mediators of the development of an allergic reaction. Its receptors, including those that produce it, are found on the mucous membrane of the eye.Usually, antihistamines are used for severe eye allergy symptoms. They can help with itching, swelling, redness of the mucous membranes. Antihistamines contain h2-receptor blockers, due to which the reactive response to the allergen begins to decrease. Produced in the form of drops, such drugs act directly at the site of the lesion.

Moisturizing the eyes. The tissues of the lacrimal glands are restored for a long time. To facilitate this process, you can use moisturizing eye drops at the first symptoms of an allergy.Their action will minimize the damage to the glandular tissue, and therefore, prevent or reduce the swelling of the eyes in case of allergies, which usually leads to blockage of the lacrimal glands. Therapy using topical moisturizing drops can last for about a month.

Up to contents

Benefits of using VISIN

^® Allergy

The main active ingredient of VISIN® Allergy eye drops is levocabastine hydrochloride. It is a potent selective blocker of h2-histamine receptors, due to which edema and other allergy symptoms are eliminated in a short time.VISIN® Allergy drops are the latest generation of antihistamines. The drug has the following advantages.

• Quick relief of symptoms. VISIN® Allergy drops within 5 minutes ¹ after instillation may relieve swelling, itching and other manifestations of allergies. The effect of the drug lasts up to 12 hours.
• High Security Profile. The drug is used topically, due to which it combines both speed of action and safety. At the same time, the risk of developing adverse reactions associated with its use is minimal.
• Possibility of long-term use. Instructions for the use of VISIN® Allergy drops do not contain any restrictions on the duration of use of the drug.

¹ According to the instructions for use of the drug

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace the professional advice of a doctor. Consult an ophthalmologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Eye and nasal drops for allergies

Order eye drops for allergies

Allergy affects various organs, it also affects the eyes.According to research data, the number of eye lesions of this type reaches 91.2% [1].
Eye drops are prescribed to relieve allergic symptoms.

On our website you can order the necessary funds. Search is possible – by name, manufacturer, active ingredient. This makes it possible to find analogues cheaper or more expensive.
If you use the system of discounts and promotions, then the price of eye drops for allergies will become more favorable.

Your order will be delivered to one of more than 1200 pharmacies in Moscow, St. Petersburg, or Moscow and Leningrad regions.There you pay and receive your order.

All antiallergic eye preparations are certified.

Readings

Eyes are the first to react to various stimuli (wool, dust, household chemicals, to bloom).
At the same time, they turn red, there is lacrimation or dryness, photophobia, burning.

To prevent the eyes from reacting to irritants, anti-allergy drops are used:

1. For the treatment of seasonal and non-seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
2. For allergic keratitis, keratoconjunctivitis; from redness of the eyes caused by environmental factors.
3. For the prevention of seasonal and non-seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
4. Elderly people with cerebrovascular accidents, dizziness, tinnitus, fear and anxiety.
5. For moisturizing eyes with dryness, burning, foreign body or grit sensation; with irritated and tired eyes, in the period after surgery,
   when wearing contact lenses, after damage to the surface of the eyes of various origins.
6. For chronic blepharitis.
7. For significant eye strain.
8. For the treatment of blepharoconjunctivitis, angular conjunctivitis.

Medicines are prescribed for both adults and children.

Contraindications

Antiallergic eye drops have contraindications.

Can’t use them:

• with sensitivity to any drug constituent;

90,090 pregnant women, breastfeeding;

• with prostatic hyperplasia, stenosis of the bladder neck;
• for diabetes mellitus;
• for glaucoma and cataract;
• for eye infections;

90,090 babies.

When prescribing children, you should carefully study the instructions for use.

Form of issue

Medicines are produced in solid (tablets, powders, pills) and liquid (syrups, drops) states.

Means for allergies for the eyes are made in drops and can be hormonal and non-hormonal (vasoconstrictor, antihistamine, immunomodulatory).

In our catalog, antiallergic eye products are presented in the form:

• drops;
• dampening solutions.

When choosing a drug for allergies, a doctor’s opinion and recommendations are required.

Country of origin

The list on our website contains eye drops from allergies from the following manufacturers:

Italian 90,089 90,090;

90,090 Russian;

Finnish 90,090;

90,090 Egyptian and others.

BEFORE USING THE PREPARATIONS, PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE OR CONSULT A SPECIALIST BEFORE USING THE PREPARATIONS.

References:

1. [i] Medical Scientific and Practical Portal “Attending Physician”, Chronic allergic conjunctivitis: clinical forms, new therapy.Author Yu. F. Maychuk, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, link to electronic resource
   https://www.