How can you alleviate eye allergy symptoms in spring. What are the most effective ways to prevent and treat seasonal eye irritations. Which methods provide relief for itchy, swollen eyes caused by allergies.

Understanding Spring Eye Allergies: Causes and Symptoms

Spring brings new growth and warmer weather, but for many, it also heralds the onset of seasonal allergies. Eye allergies, in particular, can be a significant source of discomfort during this time of year. But what exactly causes these allergic reactions, and how do they manifest?

Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances in the environment, such as pollen, mold spores, or pet dander. These allergens trigger the release of histamines in the body, leading to inflammation and irritation in the eyes.

Common Symptoms of Spring Eye Allergies

• Itchy, red eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Watery or excessively dry eyes
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision

Can eye allergies cause long-term damage? Fortunately, most seasonal eye allergies do not result in permanent harm to your vision. However, chronic rubbing of itchy eyes can potentially lead to corneal damage or eye infections. This is why it’s crucial to manage symptoms effectively and avoid touching your eyes as much as possible.

Allergen Avoidance: The First Line of Defense

The most effective way to combat eye allergies is to minimize exposure to allergens. By taking proactive steps to reduce contact with pollen and other irritants, you can significantly alleviate your symptoms.

Practical Tips for Reducing Allergen Exposure

1. Change HVAC filters before spring
2. Monitor daily pollen counts
3. Increase cleaning frequency at home
4. Keep windows closed during high pollen days
5. Perform thorough spring cleaning before the season begins

Is it possible to completely avoid allergens during spring? While it’s challenging to eliminate all exposure, these preventative measures can dramatically reduce your contact with allergens and, consequently, the severity of your symptoms.

The Contact Lens Conundrum: Why You Should Switch to Glasses

For those who wear contact lenses, spring can be particularly challenging. Contact lenses can exacerbate allergy symptoms by trapping allergens against the surface of the eye. This prolonged contact can intensify irritation and discomfort.

Should you stop wearing contacts altogether during allergy season? It’s advisable to switch to glasses for at least the first month of spring when pollen counts are typically at their highest. This allows your eyes to recover and reduces the risk of further irritation.

Preparing for the Switch to Glasses

• Schedule an eye exam to update your prescription
• Ensure your glasses fit comfortably
• Consider investing in anti-reflective coating to reduce glare
• Keep your glasses clean to prevent allergen buildup

By making this temporary switch, you give your eyes a chance to heal and minimize the impact of allergens on your ocular health.

Saline Solutions: A Simple Yet Effective Relief Method

One of the most straightforward and effective ways to alleviate eye allergy symptoms is by using saline solution. This sterile, salt-based liquid can help flush allergens from your eyes and provide immediate relief from irritation.

How does saline solution work to relieve eye allergies? Saline rinses work by physically removing allergens from the surface of the eye and restoring the eye’s natural moisture balance. This can help reduce itching, redness, and the urge to rub your eyes.

Benefits of Using Saline Solution for Eye Allergies

• Removes allergens from the eye surface
• Restores moisture to dry, irritated eyes
• Reduces the urge to rub eyes
• Safe for frequent use
• Non-medicated and gentle on sensitive eyes

When using saline solution, it’s important to use a sterile product specifically designed for eye care. Never use tap water or homemade saline solutions, as these can introduce harmful bacteria to your eyes.

Medicated Eye Drops: Targeted Relief for Allergy Symptoms

While saline solutions offer general relief, medicated eye drops can provide more targeted treatment for specific allergy symptoms. There are several types of eye drops available, each designed to address different aspects of eye allergies.

Types of Medicated Eye Drops for Allergies

• Antihistamine drops: Reduce itching and redness
• Decongestant drops: Alleviate redness and swelling
• Mast cell stabilizer drops: Prevent allergy symptoms
• Artificial tears: Lubricate dry eyes and wash away allergens

How do you choose the right eye drops for your symptoms? The best approach is to consult with your optometrist. They can assess your specific symptoms and recommend the most appropriate type of eye drops for your situation.

Are over-the-counter eye drops as effective as prescription options? While OTC drops can provide relief for mild to moderate symptoms, prescription eye drops may be necessary for more severe cases. Your eye doctor can determine if a prescription-strength product is needed.

Cold Therapy: Soothing Relief for Swollen Eyes

Cold therapy is a simple yet effective way to reduce swelling and provide immediate relief for allergy-affected eyes. The cold temperature constricts blood vessels, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

How to Apply Cold Therapy for Eye Allergies

1. Use a soft cloth or specialized eye compress
2. Soak the compress in cool water
3. Gently wring out excess water
4. Place the compress over closed eyes for 5-10 minutes
5. Repeat as needed throughout the day

For enhanced cooling, you can refrigerate the damp compress for 10-15 minutes before applying. This can provide longer-lasting relief for more severe symptoms.

Is it safe to use ice directly on the eyes? No, direct application of ice can be too harsh for the delicate skin around the eyes. Always use a cloth or specialized compress as a barrier between the cold source and your skin.

Hygiene Habits: Keeping Allergens at Bay

Proper hygiene practices play a crucial role in managing eye allergies. By regularly cleaning your hands, face, and the area around your eyes, you can significantly reduce your exposure to allergens and minimize symptoms.

Essential Hygiene Tips for Allergy Sufferers

• Wash hands frequently, especially before touching your face
• Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle, hypoallergenic cleanser
• Rinse the eye area as needed throughout the day
• Use clean towels and washcloths daily
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes

How often should you wash your hands during allergy season? Aim to wash your hands at least every couple of hours, and always before touching your face or eyes. This simple habit can significantly reduce the transfer of allergens to your eyes.

Should you use special products to wash your face during allergy season? While it’s not necessary to use specialized products, opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that won’t irritate sensitive skin. Avoid harsh exfoliants or products with strong fragrances, as these can further irritate allergy-prone skin.

Protective Eyewear: Shielding Your Eyes from Allergens

Wearing protective eyewear is an often overlooked but highly effective strategy for managing eye allergies. Sunglasses or wraparound glasses can create a physical barrier between your eyes and airborne allergens, reducing your exposure and alleviating symptoms.

Benefits of Wearing Sunglasses for Allergy Relief

• Blocks airborne allergens from reaching the eyes
• Reduces eye strain and squinting in bright sunlight
• Protects eyes from UV rays, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms
• Prevents wind from drying out eyes

What type of sunglasses are best for allergy protection? Look for wraparound styles or those with large lenses that provide maximum coverage. Polarized lenses can offer additional comfort by reducing glare.

Can you wear sunglasses indoors for allergy relief? While it’s not common practice, some individuals find that wearing clear, non-tinted protective glasses indoors can help reduce allergen exposure. However, this should be balanced with the need for proper indoor lighting to avoid eye strain.

Prescription Sunglasses: A Dual-Purpose Solution

For those who require vision correction, prescription sunglasses offer the best of both worlds. They provide the necessary vision correction while also protecting your eyes from allergens and UV rays.

Are prescription sunglasses worth the investment? For individuals with eye allergies who spend significant time outdoors, prescription sunglasses can be a worthwhile investment. They eliminate the need to choose between clear vision and eye protection, making them a convenient and effective tool for managing allergies.

Natural Remedies: Complementary Approaches to Eye Allergy Relief

While medical treatments are often necessary for managing eye allergies, several natural remedies can complement these approaches and provide additional relief. These methods can be particularly beneficial for those seeking to minimize their use of medications or looking for gentle, at-home solutions.

Effective Natural Remedies for Eye Allergies

• Cucumber slices: Place cool cucumber slices on closed eyes to reduce swelling and soothe irritation
• Chamomile tea bags: Cool, used chamomile tea bags can be applied to eyes for their anti-inflammatory properties
• Aloe vera gel: Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel around the eyes to soothe and reduce inflammation
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Increase intake of omega-3s through diet or supplements to support overall eye health
• Honey: Local, raw honey may help build immunity to local pollens when consumed regularly

Are natural remedies as effective as medical treatments for eye allergies? While natural remedies can provide relief, they generally aren’t as potent or fast-acting as medical treatments. They’re best used in conjunction with other allergy management strategies and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Dietary Considerations: Eating Your Way to Better Eye Health

Your diet can play a significant role in managing eye allergies and promoting overall eye health. Certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties or contain nutrients that support eye function and may help alleviate allergy symptoms.

Foods That May Help Reduce Eye Allergy Symptoms

1. Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) rich in omega-3 fatty acids
2. Leafy greens (spinach, kale) high in lutein and zeaxanthin
3. Citrus fruits and berries high in vitamin C
4. Nuts and seeds containing vitamin E
5. Probiotics found in yogurt and fermented foods

Can dietary changes alone cure eye allergies? While a healthy diet supports overall eye health and may reduce the severity of allergy symptoms, it’s unlikely to completely eliminate allergies on its own. Diet should be considered part of a comprehensive allergy management plan.

The Role of Air Quality: Creating an Allergy-Free Home Environment

The air quality in your home can significantly impact the severity of your eye allergy symptoms. By taking steps to improve indoor air quality, you can create a safe haven from allergens and reduce your overall exposure.

Strategies for Improving Indoor Air Quality

• Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your HVAC system
• Invest in a standalone air purifier for bedrooms and living areas
• Regularly vacuum carpets and upholstery with a HEPA-filtered vacuum
• Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent mold growth
• Remove shoes at the door to avoid tracking in outdoor allergens

How often should you change your home’s air filters during allergy season? For optimal air quality, replace standard HVAC filters every 30-90 days, or more frequently if you have pets or severe allergies. HEPA filters may last longer but should be checked regularly and replaced as needed.

When to Seek Professional Help: Recognizing Severe Symptoms

While many eye allergy symptoms can be managed at home, there are instances where professional medical attention is necessary. It’s important to recognize the signs that your allergies may require more advanced treatment.

Signs You Should Consult an Eye Doctor

• Severe or persistent eye pain
• Vision changes or blurriness that doesn’t improve
• Symptoms that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
• Eye discharge that is thick, yellow, or greenish
• Sensitivity to light that interferes with daily activities

What can an eye doctor do for severe eye allergies? An optometrist or ophthalmologist can provide a thorough eye examination, rule out other potential eye conditions, and prescribe stronger medications if needed. They may also recommend allergy testing or refer you to an allergist for more comprehensive allergy management.

Long-Term Management: Building Resilience to Eye Allergies

While the strategies discussed so far focus on immediate relief and symptom management, long-term management of eye allergies involves building overall resilience and potentially reducing your sensitivity to allergens over time.

Approaches to Long-Term Allergy Management

1. Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or sublingual tablets to desensitize your immune system
2. Year-round allergy prevention: Maintaining good habits even outside of peak allergy seasons
3. Regular eye check-ups: Monitoring eye health and adjusting treatment plans as needed
4. Stress management: Reducing stress, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms
5. Overall health maintenance: Supporting your immune system through diet, exercise, and adequate sleep

Is it possible to outgrow eye allergies? While some people may find their allergies lessen with age, it’s more common for allergies to persist throughout life. However, with proper management and treatment, many individuals can significantly reduce the impact of allergies on their daily lives.

By implementing these strategies and working closely with healthcare professionals, you can develop a comprehensive plan to manage your eye allergies effectively, both in the short term and long term. Remember, everyone’s experience with allergies is unique, so it may take some time to find the combination of treatments that works best for you.

Spring Symptoms: 7 Ways to Soothe Eye Allergies

Spring is just around the corner, and the change in season promises fairer weather and new beginnings. Unfortunately, the new growth of spring can also create seasonal allergies that leave you with congestion, headaches, and itchy, swollen eyes.

To combat seasonal eye allergies, you must have a dual focus on both prevention and treatment for symptoms. Use these seven methods to soothe your eye irritations related to allergies.

1. Avoid Allergens

The best strategy to minimize your eye discomfort during the spring is to limit your exposure to allergens. As winter comes to an end, create an actionable plan that helps you avoid seasonal allergens like pollen.

Steps you take may include:

• Changing your HVAC filters before turning on your cooling system for the first time
• Checking pollen levels online as part of your daily routine
• Cleaning your home more frequently
• Keeping your windows closed
• Spring cleaning before the weather actually warms up

These preventative measures are an important first step to good eye health during allergy season.

2. Don’t Wear Your Contacts

If you are prone to allergy-related eye irritation, stop wearing your contacts for the first month or so of spring weather. While contacts do not cause allergy symptoms, they can aggravate any symptoms that do appear.

To prepare for switching to full-time glasses use, you may want to schedule an eye exam. This exam presents a good opportunity for you to check that your glasses prescription is current and to make any necessary updates to maintain your comfort and vision quality.

3. Rinse With Saline

Eye allergies can cause changes in tear production. Many individuals experience eye dryness or excess tears due to allergies. In some cases, your eyes may water frequently but still feel dry due to allergens.

Much of this type of irritation occurs when airborne allergens come into contact with the surface of the eyeball. To minimize your allergen exposure, rinse your eyes with saline solution as necessary. This saline rinse can also reduce the urge to rub your eyes, which is essential because rubbing can trigger a release of more histamines and cause redness, swelling, and blood vessel breakage.

4. Use Medicated Eye Drops

In addition to sterile rinses, medicated eye drops may help relieve some of the discomfort associated with seasonal eye allergies. Decongestant or antihistamine drops can control redness, itchiness, and other symptoms.

You may also want to use artificial tears to help maintain correct eye lubrication. Before you begin a new eye health regimen, consult with your optometrist to determine which brand and formula is best for your symptoms.

5. Try Cold Therapy

Many individuals notice redness, tenderness, and swelling in the eye area when suffering from allergies. Cold therapy can provide immediate soothing relief for these symptoms, including improving the appearance of the skin around the eyes.

Use a soft cloth or compress designed for use in the eye area. These compresses are gentler than traditional cold therapy tools and are safer for your eyes. Soak the compress in cool water, wring it out, and place over the eyes. You can refresh the compress with water when the cloth no longer feels cold.

To address more intense symptoms, wet your compress, wring out the cloth, and put it in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. This colder compress will last longer and provide relief for more advanced swelling.

6. Wash Your Hands and Face Frequently

As mentioned above, many eye allergy symptoms come from allergens landing on the eye. In addition to floating airborne allergens, your eyes could also suffer from contact with allergens that are transferred in on your skin or hair.

Wash your hands more frequently during allergy season. You should also wash your face twice a day and rinse the area around your eyes as needed. These steps reduce the concentration of allergens on your skin. You may also want to pin back any hair that may cover your face at eye height to minimize your allergen exposure.

7. Wear Sunglasses

When you do need to be outside, wear glasses to protect the surface of your eyes from direct contact with allergens. You may prefer to wear sunglasses rather than your usual glasses because most sunglasses have larger lenses than everyday eyeglasses and, therefore, provide more protection.

If you need constant vision correction, but want the benefits of wearing sunglasses, talk to your eye doctor about investing in a pair of high-quality prescription sunglasses.

If you experience eye allergies, make an appointment with an optometrist at the All About Eyes location nearest you. You should always consult with an eye doctor before you use a new type of over-the-counter eye drops because a prescription oral antihistamine, eye drops, or injection may be more effective to manage your symptoms. If your allergies cause vision changes, feelings of a foreign object in your eye, or acute pain, make an emergency appointment as soon as possible.

Eye Allergy / Allergic Conjunctivitis

Eye Allergies (Allergic Conjunctivitis)

Eye allergies, also called “allergic conjunctivitis,” are a common eye condition. The tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and outside of the eyeball is called the conjunctiva. This tissue keeps your eyelid and eyeball moist. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when this tissue becomes inflamed. With eye allergies, you usually see redness and itching in both eyes, instead of in just one eye.

What Causes Eye Allergies?

Eye allergies are a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens that get into your eyes. Examples of these are pollen, mold spores, dust mites and pet dander. Eye allergies are not contagious. They cannot be spread to another person.

Irritants like dirt, smoke, chemicals, and chlorine can also cause swelling and redness of the eyes. This reaction is not an allergic reaction. Viruses and bacteria can also cause the same irritation of the eyes. This reaction is also not an allergic reaction. Some medications and cosmetics can also cause eye allergy symptoms.

The eyes are an easy target for allergens and irritants because they are exposed and sensitive. The body responds to these allergens by releasing chemicals, including histamines, which produce the inflammation.

Pink eye is something different. It is a viral or bacterial infection of the eye tissue. It’s called infectious conjunctivitis. It usually starts in one eye and can spread easily to the other eye within a day or two. This eye condition is easily transmitted from person to person. But it is usually not a serious health risk if diagnosed right away.

What Are the Signs of Eye Allergies?

The common symptoms of eye allergies are:

• Redness
• Itchiness
• Burning feeling
• Watery eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Feeling like there is dirt or grit in your eyes

You may also have a runny or itchy nose, sneezing, coughing or a sinus headache. Many also find that their vision is briefly blurred or that they feel distracted, unproductive or tired.

What Is the Treatment for Eye Allergies?

The first and best option is to avoid contact with substances that trigger your eye allergies. If that is not enough, consider using:

• Saline eye drops to wash away the allergens
• Over-the-counter medicine or eye drops (short-term use)
• Prescription treatments from your doctor
• Allergy shots (immunotherapy) from your doctor

Eye allergy symptoms may disappear completely when the allergen is removed or after the allergy is treated. Talk to your pharmacist and health care provider about what is best for you.

How Can I Prevent Eye Allergies?

The first and best option is to avoid contact with things that trigger your eye allergies. Other tips are:

• Don’t touch or rub your eye(s).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Use a vacuum with a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® filter to reduce exposure to allergens.
• Wash your bed linens and pillowcases in hot water and detergent to reduce allergens.
• Use allergen covers (encasements) for pillows, comforters, duvets, mattresses and consider using them for box springs.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom to reduce pet dander allergen in your bedding.
• Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to help keep pollen from getting into your eyes.
• Keep windows closed during high pollen and mold seasons. Use the air conditioner in your car and home. Also, think about using a CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly® filter.

Medical Review October 2015.

Do You Have A Seasonal Eye Allergy?

April 27, 2018

Learn how to treat a seasonal eye allergy.

We are in the middle Spring which means it is getting warmer outside and the flowers are in full bloom.  It also means that there is an increase of pollen in the air causing people to have red and irritated eyes.  During the springtime, many people suffer from an eye condition called allergic conjunctivitis which affects more than 20 percent of the U.S. population.  If you notice that you’re eyes are only swollen and red during the Spring and Fall, then you probably suffer from a seasonal eye allergy.

Causes and Symptoms

There are a few common causes of allergic conjunctivitis including pollen and mold that your body is sensitive to.  Everyone is not allergic to the same type of pollen, so only a specific flower might trigger an allergic reaction in your eyes.  It is common to suffer from an eye allergy indoors which can be caused by dust, mold, or pet hair. If you suffer from allergic conjunctivitis, your symptoms can range from very mild to severe.  Common symptoms are itchy eyes, redness, tearing and a burning sensation. If your child suffers from allergic conjunctivitis, make sure they are avoiding rubbing their eyes.

Treatment

When trying to treat a seasonal eye allergy, it is important to try to avoid exposure to pollen and dust.  If you are going outside during seasonal allergy season, try to wear your prescription glasses or sunglasses to prevent pollen getting to your eyes.  After being exposed to pollen from the outside, make sure that you wash your face to get rid as much pollen as possible. Washing your face has been seen to be effective at relieving the symptoms of allergies.  Putting a cold compress on your eyes can reduce swelling and other allergic reaction symptoms.

Eye Drops

One of the most common treatments for allergic conjunctivitis are over-the-counter or prescription eye drops.  Most over-the-counter eye drops offer short-term relief and do not relieve all of the symptoms. If you want more long-term relief, then talk to your eye doctor or allergist about prescribing you eye drops or an oral medication.  Antihistamine drops are a very common treatment option and relieve redness, itching, and swelling. Most eye drops should be taken on a daily basis.

Get In Touch With Pediatric Eye Care Today

Pediatric Eye Care of Maryland takes your child’s eye health very seriously. With a full staff of highly skilled Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, and Orthoptists we’ve got ocular health covered. If you feel any concern about your child’s vision, have questions concerning eye health, or need information on the services we offer contact us today. With 4 convenient locations in Maryland, we are your number one choice for eye treatment.

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7 tips to help with swollen eyelids and inflamed eyes

You can’t avoid allergens — they’re everywhere and are present throughout the year in every activity we do, whether going out for fresh air or cleaning the basement. Allergens are common triggers for symptoms like coughing, sneezing, stuffy and runny nose and, most especially, swollen eyes. Allergies can cause the eyes to swell and become red, itchy, watery and really uncomfortable.

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“The reason people have swollen eyes from allergies is they’re getting contact in the eyes from airborne allergens,” According to Princess Ogbogu, MD, the Director of the Division of Allergy and Immunology and an associate professor at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

“Basically, when the allergens hit your eyes, they sort of dissolve in your tears,” says Dr. Ogbogu. “They have contact with the lining of the eye [the conjunctiva], and they react with antibodies that are bound to cells in your eyes.” These antibodies cause the body to release a histamine. A histamine causes nasal congestion as well as swollen eyes. They can come from pollen and molds, and indoor allergens such as pet dander and dust.

How bad can swollen eyes get? 

Eye allergies are also known as allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis is different from regular conjunctivitis (pink eye) as it is not contagious. Also, eye allergies usually affect both eyes. 

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), eye allergies can cause burning or teary, watery eyes or make you sensitive to light. Eye allergies are often accompanied by a runny nose, cough or headache. Your vision may also be briefly blurry and you may feel distracted or sluggish and unproductive.

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 quick 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 Dr. Ogbogu. Doing this can help wash away the allergens sticking to your skin and eyelashes.

Rinse out your eyes

 “Rinse out the eyes if you can with a little bit of water, and that’s usually helpful,” Dr. 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 Dr. Ogbogu. Soak a towel or washcloth in cold water or refrigerate a damp cloth or eye pillow. Next, lie down with the compress across your eyes to let the coolness reduce the swelling of your eyelids.

Try allergy eye drops 

Dr. 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 American Academy of Ophthalmology 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, as they prevent 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

Dr. 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” with itchy, inflamed eyes, says Dr. Ogbogu. A breezy day with lots of pollen in the air will continually re-expose you to allergens. During seasons where the outdoor allergens are high, it is best to stay inside. The best time to do outdoor activities is after a rainy day, when fewer allergens are in the air.

It may be quite difficult, but avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen symptoms. Dr. 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.”

If any of the following issues 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

Drink water

Make sure to always drink water at any time of the day.  Water infuses your whole body with hydration. Although you may have heard that you should drink eight glasses of water a day, experts now recommend 15.5 cups for men and 11.5 cups for women. That’s a lot of water, so consider that this amount includes all fluids from drinks and foods.

If you don’t like plain water, try squeezing in a bit of lemon to add a bit of flavour. There are also fruit infuser water bottles that let you insert your favourite fruit to flavour your water. Another option to add taste is using all-natural water flavour enhancers. Stur, for example, is sugar-free, calorie-free and also contains antioxidants.

Got a question, or anything I can help with? My name is Steve Stretton, and I’m the owner and manager at Gelpacks.com. You can drop me a line here. Good luck!

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6 Options for Treating Allergy Eyes – White Eye Care – Logan

In our previous post, we explored the symptoms of seasonal allergies that affect the eyes—what we call allergic conjunctivitis. These include itchy, watery, swollen red and irritated eyes. If you’ve had them, you know how annoying and uncomfortable the condition can be.

Let’s explore 6 options for treating this seasonal condition:

1. Over-the-Counter Allergy Eye Drops

There are a variety of over-the-counter allergy eye drops on the market that you can buy to find relief from red, swollen, or itchy allergy eyes. Many of these eye drops have antihistamines or block your body’s mast cells to help reduce your body’s allergic reaction. In addition, preservative-free artificial tear eye drops can help to soothe the discomfort of allergic conjunctivitis. Here’s a tip: For an added cooling effect on warm Spring days, store your eye drops in the refrigerator before use.

2. Prescription Eye Drops

Depending on your level of irritation, over-the-counter products may not provide sufficient relief from your symptoms. If that’s the case, discuss prescription eye drop options with your optometrist. While similar in function to many over-the-counter products, prescription eye drops are often more powerful and therefore more effective in providing relief. Prescription drops may include steroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to relieve your irritating symptoms.

3. Apply a Cold Compress

Changing the temperature of your eye area may give you relief from allergic conjunctivitis. Cooler temperatures will help to shrink blood vessels and reduce blood flow and swelling to relieve your discomfort. You can buy a ready-made cold compress to keep in your refrigerator. To make your own compress, fill a sealable plastic bag with ice cubes and wrap a thin towel around it, then apply to the eyes for 10 minutes. One of our most creative patients uses a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a thin towel and says it works great!

4. Oral Medications

The same oral antihistamines that relieve runny noses and sneezing may also minimize your allergic conjunctivitis symptoms. You may need to start taking them up to a month before allergy season to maximize effectiveness. Allergy medications can have another effect, however: In some cases, antihistamines can result in symptoms of dry eye. Antihistamines can result in drowsiness.

In addition to the treatments recommended above, here are a few additional tips that might help minimize our allergic reaction this season:

5. Avoid allergens

Allergic to your neighbor’s cat or dog? Avoid petting him, and when you do come in contact with him, wash your hands thoroughly afterward. If pollen is your kryptonite, choose inside activities on high pollen days. If you do go outside, wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes from being exposed. When you come inside, change your clothes and wash your face or take a shower to minimize your pollen allergen exposure. Here’s why: tiny pollen particles attach themselves to your skin and hair. If you get in bed with pollen on your body, and it transfers to your pillow, you’ll constantly re-expose yourself all night long!

6. What about Contact Lenses?

Since allergens (including pollen) often stick to a contact lens’s surface, it’s a best practice to minimize exposure in the eyes. There are two options:

1. Try one-day or “daily” contact lenses. One-day contact lenses are a smart solution because you get that “fresh pair” feeling every day. While it’s challenging to remove pollen from the surface of a weekly or monthly contact lens, putting a fresh, new pair into your eyes each day assures you that there isn’t pollen or other allergens on them.
2. Take a brief contact lens vacation. If your eyes are severely affected by allergies, take a break from contact lenses. Wear your glasses for a few weeks until the pollen storm is over. When you wear that attractive new pair of face-framing prescription glasses that you found in our optical department, you may even be surprised how many compliments you get!

Don’t like your current glasses or need to update your prescription? Make an appointment to come in and see us! We have new styles arriving weekly for Spring. Our team will help you find a flattering, face-framing pair to see you through allergy season in style.

Many of the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis are similar to those of an eye infection or other problems. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, call us to set up an appointment. When eyes are red, dry, irritated or watery, these symptoms can indicate a variety of other eye problems. Our professional staff will examine and evaluate your eyes and address your symptoms to make sure you’re seeing your best in every season.

How Can I Treat Swollen Eyes?

Swollen, puffy eyes can be uncomfortable, but fortunately with the right treatment, you’ll be feeling better in no time. Eye swelling can have a number of different causes, which is why it is so important to seek out treatment from your optometrist if your symptoms persist. They can help you figure out what is causing your swollen eyes and recommend a course of treatment that is right for you.

Why are my eyes swollen and puffy?

Usually swollen or puffy eyelids are a symptom of another condition – usually an allergy or infection – or occur as a result of an injury to the eye.Swollen eyelids occur when there is excessive fluid build-up in the tissues surrounding the eye, or when the eyelids are inflamed. Depending on the cause of your swollen eyelids, they may also be painful – or they may simply be irritating. Often, swollen eyelids also occur alongside other symptoms – usually itching or watery eyes, or redness. This is especially true if you experience seasonal allergies, or you experience an allergic reaction to pets or cosmetics. If you have an infection, you also may notice a discharge from your eyes, which could be white or yellow in colour. More rarely, swollen eyelids can also be symptomatic of a more serious condition that requires further medical treatment, so if you have any questions at all, be sure to speak to your optometrist.

What can I do to relieve my swollen eyes?

In order to properly treat your swollen eyes, you will need to first identify the cause of the problem. In some cases, this will be easy – for example, if you know you are allergic to cats and you are in the presence of a cat, your eyes may become puffy. When you remove yourself from the situation, your symptoms are likely to disappear on their own. However, in many cases, the cause of your swollen eyes may be less clear. You may have a stye or other form of eyelid infection, such as blepharitis, or you may be experiencing an allergy for the first time. Conjunctivitis, an infection more commonly referred to as pink eye, may also cause your eyelids to appear swollen. If you are in any doubt or your symptoms do not start to improve on their own, seek advice from your optometrist on the best course of action. Because in some rare cases, swollen eyes can be a symptom of serious conditions such as Graves’ disease, orbital cellulitis or ocular herpes it is essential to seek out the appropriate care and treatment.

Once you have determined the cause of your swollen eyes, your treatment could include over-the-counter or prescription eye drops or ointments, the application of hot compresses, or in more serious cases, oral antibiotics. It is important to avoid rubbing your eyelids, which can irritate them further. If you are a contact lens wearer, you will want to switch to your glasses until your course of treatment is complete, and then start fresh with a new pair of contact lenses.

What can I do to prevent my eyes from swelling?

If you discover that an eye cream or makeup product is the cause of your swollen eyes, the first thing you need to do is stop using it. Once your symptoms clear up, you will want to switch to a different product.Look for words like ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘fragrance-free’ on the labels of cosmetics, creams and lotions – these products may be less likely to cause irritation.If you experience persistent or recurring swollen eyelids, contact your optometrist. They will be able to recommend an appropriate treatment for you, as well as suggest other ways to prevent your eyelids from swelling in the future.

How to Reduce Fall Allergy Eye Puffiness

If you suffer from fall allergies, you’re familiar with the misery of constant sneezing, coughing, itching and those dreaded puffy, swollen, eyes that make you look exhausted, sick and older than your years. A strong reaction to one of fall’s many plant pollens and other allergens can cause fluid to accumulate under and around your eyes; this results in the unsightly, bloated look that no amount of makeup can hide. If your eyes also itch, you’ll be tempted to rub them, and doing so can cause redness and further inflammation which makes you look even worse

Strategies to Relieve Swollen, Puffy Eyes

The best way to avoid the tender, puffy eyes and utter misery of allergic reactions is to treat the underlying cause. If using over-the-counter antihistamines doesn’t help, see your doctor for a prescription allergy medication or other treatments. If it’s too late for prevention, and you already look like you’ve cried for three days, there are several ways you can ease the symptoms.

• If possible, immediately remove yourself from the source of the allergic reaction, and rinse or cleanse your face.
• Use an eye wash product to rinse allergens away from the surface of
  your eyeballs and eyelids.
• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce inflammation.
• Use an over-the-counter or prescription eye drop designed to treat eye allergies.
• If the initial allergy symptoms have passed but swelling still persists, apply a skin care product designed to reduce the appearance of eye puffiness.

Almost-Cooling Eye Gel from Hale Cosmeceuticals

When years of eye puffiness caused by allergic reactions is combined with the effects of environmental pollutants, fatigue, stress, sun exposure and aging, the skin around the eyes is gradually depleted of essential collagen and lipids. The result is decreased circulation, chronic eye puffiness, dark circles caused by minor capillary leakage and gradual loss of skin elasticity

Almost-Cooling Eye Gel from Hale Cosmeceuticals contains phospholipids, phosphatidylcholines and squalance; these substances closely match lipids found in the skin around your eyes. The soothing gel also fortifies your eye area with powerful antioxidants and essential nutrients such as osides, amino acids, iron, zinc and magnesium. While it replenishes moisture and soothes your eyes, it actually helps heal and normalize the skin around them. With a little help from Hale, you’ll be looking great in the fall allergy season and throughout the rest of the year.

90,000 Urticaria and Quincke’s edema – Treatment of allergies and asthma in Allergomed

Urticaria is a disease caused by various factors, characterized by the appearance of a skin rash, the primary element of which is a blister.

Quincke’s edema (giant urticaria, angioedema) is a hereditary or acquired disease characterized by edema of the skin, subcutaneous tissue, as well as the mucous membranes of various organs and systems (respiratory, digestive, urinary).

The most common causes of urticaria and angioedema

1. Food products: fish, fish roe, crustaceans (crayfish, shrimps, crabs), milk, eggs, nuts, legumes, citrus fruits, chocolate, honey, cheese, strawberries, food colors and preservatives.
2. Medicines: antibiotics, B vitamins, protein preparations (plasma, blood, immunoglobulin), muscle relaxants, radiopaque substances, anti-inflammatory drugs, etc.
3. Insect bites.
4. Parasites (protozoa, helminths).
5. Infectious agents: viruses (hepatitis B and C), bacteria, fungi. Most patients have foci of infection in the ENT – organs, oral cavity, digestive system, in the urogenital tract.
6. Physical factors pressure, cold, heat, insolation, physical activity.
7. Chemicals: metal salts (chromium, nickel, cobalt), latex, ointments, creams, household chemicals.
8. Aero-allergens: household (house dust), epidermal, pollen (see.(See section Allergic rhinitis – classification of allergens).
9. Psychogenic factors (neuropsychic stress, acute stressful situation, chronic anxiety).
10. Diseases of the digestive system, neoplastic diseases, collagenoses, porphyria.
11. Often, the cause of urticaria and angioedema cannot be identified. In this case, one speaks of idiopathic urticaria.

Main symptoms

Urticaria and Quincke’s edema are acute and chronic.

Urticaria is characterized by the appearance of blisters of various sizes, accompanied by itchy skin. Blisters appear suddenly and disappear after a few hours or days. Often the body temperature rises, weakness appears, and blood pressure may decrease.

Quincke’s edema is manifested by dense painless infiltrates localized on the face (lips, eyelids), in the oral cavity (soft palate, tongue, tonsils). In about a quarter of patients, damage to the respiratory tract (larynx, trachea, bronchi) is observed.There is a barking cough, asthma attacks and asphyxiation. In 30% of cases, edema of the esophagus, stomach, intestines appears, which manifests itself in nausea, vomiting, impaired swallowing, abdominal pain, flatulence, intestinal obstruction. Localization of the process can manifest itself on the part of the urinary and nervous systems, which, accordingly, will manifest itself with urinary retention and symptoms of dizziness, nausea, vomiting, lethargy.

Diagnosis of urticaria

1. Characteristic allergological history.
2. Blood eosinophilia.
3. Increased level of immunoglobulin E.
4. Positive provocative tests for cold, physical effort, vibration, etc.
5. A complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract is required, and in some cases, immunological studies are necessary.

Treatment of urticaria and angioedema

• Elimination of allergens or causally significant disease factors.
• Drug therapy is prescribed depending on the identified cause of urticaria or Quincke’s edema.
• Non-drug therapy (see Non-drug treatments).

Despite the fact that urticaria and Quincke’s edema are among the most difficult to treat allergic pathologies, the effectiveness of complex treatment is 95-98% of good and excellent results.

In the clinic “Allergomed” there are unique methods of treating these pathologies.

90,000 possible causes of the appearance and therapy

Spring and summer are the time of flowering plants, insect activity, ripening of berries and fruits.All of these factors are often the cause of allergies. This disease is also caused by unfavorable environmental conditions, the intake of certain medications, and the use of cosmetics.

Allergic edema: causes

This pathology appears due to the body’s reaction to an irritating substance.

Allergies, puffy eyes, and redness of the eyelids and whites of the eyes are caused by the following factors:

1. Cosmetics and hygiene products (foams for washing, lotions, shampoos, eye shadow and pencils for the eyes, mascara).
2. Flowers, fluff and pollen.
3. Toxins that enter the bloodstream from bites of bees, bumblebees, wasps, mosquitoes, ants, etc.
4. Reaction to exposure to sunlight.
5. Food allergies (fruits and vegetables, honey, milk, fish, shellfish, berries, spices, sweets).
6. Allergic reaction to feathers, down, fur of pets.
7. Perfume, deodorant, eau de toilette.
8. Paints, glue, detergents.
9. Taking certain medications (most often hormonal drugs and antibiotics).
10. Effects of bacteria and viruses on the gastrointestinal tract.

Only a physician can determine the specific substance causing eye swelling. To do this, you need to do laboratory tests – allergy tests. After the cause is established, it is necessary to adhere to the treatment prescribed by the specialist and avoid or limit the interaction with the allergen as much as possible.

Signs of illness

As a rule, if an allergy occurs, the eyes itch and swell. But this condition is also characterized by such manifestations as:

1. Pallor or bluish tint of the skin.
2. Increased sensitivity to light.
3. Lacrimation, sometimes nasal flow.
4. Fever, fatigue and lethargy.

As a rule, swelling affects one eye, but sometimes both. The swelling is usually not accompanied by pain, since there is no mechanical damage to the skin and mucous membranes. If a person has an allergy and puffy eyes, he is worried about severe itching, which gets worse at night. In rare cases, the swelling will go away on its own, about two days after it appears.Sometimes it persists for a long time or even intensifies. In any case, do not expect that symptoms such as allergies and puffy eyes will go away on their own. If these diseases are left unattended, do not consult a doctor and do not follow the recommendations prescribed by him, more serious pathologies may arise.

Complications of allergies

One of the most dangerous consequences of this disease is Quincke’s edema, which poses a direct threat to human life, as it can cause asphyxiation. This complication is provoked by a high concentration of a foreign substance in the patient’s blood. With Quincke’s edema, not only the eyelids swell, but also the cheeks and throat.

If symptoms such as allergies, puffy eyes are present, and a person does not take measures to combat this pathology, complications such as a violation of the blood supply to the eyeball may appear. In this case, the patient’s vision deteriorates sharply.

If a person scratches his eyes too often and too much, bacteria and viruses enter them, which leads to inflammation.With severe swelling on the anterior membrane of the eye, a seal or a pathological process of connective tissue may develop.

First aid

If you suspect that a person has a severe allergic reaction and, possibly, Quincke’s edema begins, you must immediately call an ambulance. Before the arrival of doctors, you need to give the patient as much fluid as possible so that the foreign substance quickly leaves the cells of the body. If a person has previously experienced allergic reactions (itching, redness of the skin, runny nose, sneezing and coughing), he should take the medication prescribed by the doctor.It is not recommended to make lotions from tea leaves or herbs, as they can increase the swelling.

In some cases, if there is a severe allergy on the face, swollen eyes, the doctor prescribes an examination in a hospital setting to determine the cause of the pathology and stop the acute condition. As a rule, the diagnosis in this case is not difficult, but it must be passed. To do this, you need to pass a number of tests (blood and urine tests), as well as visit an ENT, a general practitioner and an allergy specialist.Determination of the substance that provoked a negative reaction of the body is an integral stage in the patient’s therapy.

Treatment methods

If a person has swollen eyes and allergies, what to do in this case? What steps should be taken to relieve symptoms? Allergy to the eyes is a very common pathology, it occurs in both adults and children. It causes it to enter the body of a foreign substance. It can penetrate both through the blood and through the gastrointestinal tract.Allergy symptoms are stopped by antihistamines, which neutralize the effect of the irritating component on human organs and systems. Such drugs include, for example, Lomilan, Clarisens, Erius, Tsetrin, Loratadin, Tavegil, Claritin.

To reduce itching and swelling of the eyes, drops (Alomid, Ketotifen, Lekrolin), as well as hormonal ointments (Dexamethasone, Celestoderm) are usually used. These products contain hormones and should only be used as directed by your doctor.If the allergy is accompanied by profuse lacrimation and irritation of the membranes of the eyes, you can use drops to narrow blood vessels (“Naphthyzin” or “Vizin”). The sensation of dryness is helped to remove “Sistane” and “Vidisik”. If wounds appear on the skin of the eyelids, and it begins to peel off, ointments based on lanolin or glycerin, as well as antimicrobial and disinfecting agents, should be used. In a situation where an allergy appears, the eyes itch and swell, than to treat, what means to use – it is better to consult a specialist.

Causes of eye swelling in children

If a child has swelling of the eyelids and redness of the skin, the following factors could contribute to this:

1. Mechanical damage.
2. Diseases of a bacterial or viral nature.
3. Allergies (to pollen, dust, food, feathers and fur of pets, cleaning products, etc.).
4. Kidney pathology.
5. Intracranial pressure disorders.
6. Heart disease.
7. Sleep disorders.
8. Acute respiratory illness.

If the eyes are swollen, the child’s allergy may also be accompanied by symptoms such as increased tearing, nasal flow, cough. If complications arise, the face and throat swell.

Eye diseases and trauma in children

Edema can be associated with the presence of such pathological processes as:

1. Inflammation of the connective membrane of the eye (manifested by redness, lacrimation, purulent discharge).
2. Inflammation of the eyelash follicles (severe and painful tissue edema, redness of the skin).
3. Phlegmon (accompanied by pain and swelling of the eyelids, high fever).
4. Insect bites (toxins entering the eye and eyelid skin cause redness and tearing, as well as intense itching).
5. Injury (ingress of foreign bodies: particles of earth, dust, lime, powder, and so on provokes eye irritation).

If unpleasant symptoms occur, the question arises that if an allergy occurs, the child’s eyes are swollen, what to do.

Methods of therapy

In case of itching, you need to make sure that the child scratches his eyes as little as possible, as this can lead to such serious consequences as mechanical damage and infection. Trying to eliminate symptoms such as allergies, puffy eyes on your own is highly discouraged.

When these signs appear in a child, you should consult a doctor. If, as a result of the examination, the diagnosis of “allergy” is confirmed, the specialist will prescribe the appropriate therapy. Usually, in such cases, antiallergic agents are prescribed (for example, Fenistil, Loratadin or Tavegil drops), as well as adsorbents – drugs to remove harmful substances from the body.

It should be remembered that if a child’s eye swelling is not accompanied by tearing and itching, this is most likely a sign of kidney or heart disease. In this situation, a comprehensive examination and treatment is necessary.

Occasionally, irritation, swelling and itching are associated with an injury to the eye. Then the child needs urgent medical attention, since mechanical damage can lead to a decrease or even complete loss of vision.Depending on the situation, the doctor either removes the foreign body and disinfects the eye, or prescribes agents that accelerate the healing process.

In the presence of an inflammatory process, ointments (erythromycin, tetracycline) are prescribed, as well as lotions with calendula and chamomile extract.

Edema in case of allergies: how to relieve allergic edema

Edema is one of the most common manifestations of allergies.

And, as luck would have it, allergic edema most often appears on the face.How to get rid of them correctly and quickly?

If you have any questions, you can ask them using the Doctis service.

1. Why does allergic edema occur? What are they?

This phenomenon is based on the body’s reaction to an allergen – an increase in the permeability of the vascular wall and the release of a large amount of fluid into the surrounding tissues. The speed of this process is directly related to the amount of the allergen and the duration of contact with it, as well as to the sensitization of the body, that is, its sensitivity to the allergen.

Allergic edema is acute and chronic.

Acute edema is often manifested by Quincke’s edema – a massive increase in the volume of the face and neck, which threatens obstruction of the upper airways and may well cause respiratory arrest. Therefore, Quincke’s edema is referred to as an emergency. And in order to remove such a strong edema, an allergy sufferer needs to be hospitalized as soon as possible, and in a hospital, against the background of complex treatment, the edema will subside. Sometimes acute edema does not occupy the entire face, but some part of it.For example, in response to the ingress of pollen, the nose swells severely. Or lips can react to a new lipstick, so much so that no hyaluronic acid is needed. Occasionally, the upper and lower eyelids swell when an allergen enters the eyes.

The second type of allergic edema is chronic edema. They appear gradually, over several hours, often in the spring and at the beginning of the ribbon, during flowering. They are less dangerous, but no less noticeable.

2. What are the general treatments for allergic edema?

Edema, although located on the face or extremities, is a manifestation of a systemic disease – allergy.This means that you cannot do without drugs that act on the body systemically (that is, tablets).

In case of massive acute edema, adrenaline, hormones, antihistamines are injected intravenously to relieve them. Let’s leave this job to emergency doctors.

Local acute, as well as chronic edema require the use of antihistamines in tablets. Often this is a course treatment that covers the entire period of action of the allergen, for example, flowering. Or for the entire time of a visit, a dusty room, for example, an old library or a museum storeroom.I understand that among the readers there are those who do not like pills, but alas, without antihistamines, it will not be possible to quickly remove allergic edema.

3. Is it possible to quickly remove allergic edema using topical agents?

Various topical ointments containing hormones, mainly corticosteroids, are intended for this. They are used as directed by a doctor, rubbing into the swollen place 2-3 times a day.

In addition, dermal and nasal sprays and drops with anti-edema have recently appeared. In order to choose the right remedy and the optimal dosage form, it is better to consult a doctor.

There are many effective folk recipes for the quick relief of allergic edema. So, a mask of fermented milk (kefir, sour cream) products helps to remove swelling from the face. It should be applied to the face for 15-20 minutes and then washed off with cool water. Equally effective is the application of an ice heating pad or direct massage with ice cubes obtained from freshly frozen black or green tea.Ice cubes are also an excellent remedy for removing swelling from the lips. If the eyelids are swollen, an old cosmetologist – a cucumber – will come to the rescue. It is cut into rings, which are applied to the eyelids for 10-15 minutes.

4. How to avoid the recurrence of allergic edema?

In order not to be surprised by the surprise again, you need to consult with an allergist and try to figure out who was the source of the allergy. For this, allergic skin tests, special blood tests, provocative tests have been developed.

Knowing your allergen, it is realistic to avoid contact in the future, or to take preventive measures in a timely manner, starting the intake of antihistamines in advance, if it is impossible to avoid unwanted contact.

Allergic edema is widespread, and their main problem is that many of us cannot figure out their allergic nature for a long time. They restrict fluid intake, refuse beer and tea, subscribe to “quick drying” channels on social networks, buy expensive cosmetics.But everything is useless, the swelling persists, or even progresses. It is not surprising, because if the edema is based on an allergic reaction, it is necessary first of all to act on the allergy systemically, taking antihistamines, and the place is not to use ordinary ointments, but hormonal ones designed to relieve allergic edema.

Read also

Allergy will not pass

Eye allergies – causes of redness, swelling and swelling of the eyes in children and adults

Allergic eye redness is an inflammatory lesion, the body’s immune response to contact with an allergen.

Allergy to the eyes may be accompanied by swelling of the eyelids, itching and burning of the eyes, photophobia and lacrimation, combined with allergic rhinitis or other diseases.

Redness of the whites of the eyes and the skin around them causes the patient a lot of uncomfortable sensations, so you should not delay treatment – at the first signs of irritation, you need to seek help from an ophthalmologist. The doctor will find out the cause of the disease and select an adequate therapy.

REASONS FOR RED EYE

The organs of vision are vulnerable to the effects of allergens.The latter can be:

• medicines;
• household chemicals, toxic substances in the air;
• cosmetics;

90,013 plant pollen;

• animal hair, bird feathers;
• sutures used in recent eye surgery;
• dust;
• viruses, fungi, bacteria.

Since most patients experience symptoms and signs of allergic eye redness in the summer, it can be concluded that the most common cause of the disease is pollen allergens, which are contained in the air during the flowering period of cereals, trees or grasses. If the redness of the whites of the eyes makes itself felt from time to time at any time of the year, they speak not of a seasonal, but of a year-round allergic reaction. Her provocateurs are connections with which a person contacts from day to day.

HOW DOES EYE REDNESS MANIFEST

Among the main symptoms of eye allergies, doctors call:

• foreign body sensation in both or only one eye;
• fear of bright artificial or daylight;
• dry eyes;
• increased lacrimation;
• itching and burning;
• The appearance of swelling and inflammation of the skin around the eyes.

The patient’s eyelids may swell, the eyeballs may turn red. The amount of lacrimal fluid to be separated increases markedly.

EYE REDING IN CHILDREN

In children, an allergic reaction to the eyes can develop immediately after contact with the allergen or with a slight delay. The child’s eyelids are swollen, and liquid contents are secreted from the eyes. The kid complains that it is difficult for him to open his eyes, to look at the light.

Redness in or around the eyes in a child may be accompanied by a severe runny nose.In severe cases, small ulcers form on the cornea. Then the little patient is in pain.

EYE REDING IN ADULTS

Adults usually tolerate eye allergies more easily than children. Quite often, nothing bothers them at all, except for the reddened proteins. Since it looks unaesthetic, they try to solve the problem with the help of vasoconstrictor drops. This only aggravates the situation, as the blood supply to the lining of the eye may deteriorate.

Redness of the eyes in adults may be accompanied by burning, itching and photophobia, edema, and the release of a large amount of tear fluid. If the symptoms are severe and do not go away for a long time, you should consult a doctor.

REDNESS OF EYES IN ALLERGIC DISEASES

There are a large number of ophthalmic diseases of an allergic and non-allergic nature, which are characterized by one common symptom – reddening of proteins.Therefore, ophthalmology allergists-immunologists always pay maximum attention to symptoms and diagnostics.

The most common allergic pathologies in medical practice are:

1. Allergic conjunctivitis. Causes reddening of proteins, lacrimation, edema of mucous membranes, photophobia. It can be acute, subacute and chronic, seasonal and year-round.
2. Allergic dermatitis. The result of the use of drugs or cosmetics.Inflamed foci and edema appear on the skin of the eyelids and face. Itching and burning occurs. The eyes become red and swollen.
3. Cold intolerance. Eyes swell and look sore after walking outside in winter. With this form, skin rashes can also be observed.

But these are not all diseases that affect the eyes. Toxic-allergic keratitis, uveitis are also diagnoses in which proteins turn red. They are rare.

TREATMENT OF DISEASES MANIFESTED BY REDNESS OF THE EYES

Regardless of the reason for the allergy, the treatment of the disease will be carried out according to the general scheme.First, you need to identify the allergen and exclude further contact with it. If this is not done, allergic symptoms will still remind of themselves from time to time; the patient can count on a stable remission only during the period of taking medications.

The next stage is the selection of drug therapy. The doctor can prescribe funds from the following groups:

• Histamine receptor antagonists, mast cell membrane stabilizers. They do not allow the release of allergens, due to which the symptoms of the disease disappear.
• Corticosteroids. Effective for severe allergies. Relieve swelling, eliminate itching and burning. Reduces the severity of inflammation.
• Vasoconstrictor drops. Used to narrow the blood vessels of the eyes, to minimize ocular edema.
• NSAIDs. Needed to reduce inflammation, pain. Usually included in the complex therapy.

When treating allergic eye diseases, ophthalmic ointments, drops, gels and tablets can be used.Therefore, treatment can be general, local, or combined. Often the best effect can be achieved by combining topical preparations with tablets.

ERIUS

In the treatment of allergic rhinitis, accompanied by redness of the eyes, the latest generation drug “Erius” can be used, the active ingredient of which is desloratadine.

Erius helps to eliminate 10 allergy symptoms, including redness of the eyes:

• Eye redness
• Nasal congestion
• Lachrymation
• Skin rash
• Itchy eyes
• Sneezing
• Itchy nose
• Itchy palate
• Itchy skin
• Nasal discharge

Desloratadine is an active metabolite of loratadine, which prevents histamine released from tissues from interacting with receptors on target cells.Due to this, an allergic reaction does not develop.

In addition, desloratadine prevents the release of interleukins that trigger inflammation. As a result, the whites of the eyes acquire a healthy color. Tearing, itching and burning cease to bother the patient.

What is important, the drug “Erius” is active in three directions at once – antihistamine, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic. The effect of its use persists throughout the day.

The drug is available in two forms: tablets and syrup.The first is intended for the treatment of allergic diseases in patients over the age of 12 years, the second can be used even if the symptoms of allergy have arisen in a six-month-old baby.

Moreover, “Erius” does not cause drowsiness, does not affect the speed of psychomotor reactions. It can be taken even in those moments when maximum concentration and speed of decision-making are required.

PREVENTION

To reduce the risk of developing allergic eye redness, you must:

• to exclude contact with the allergen;
• eat right;
• give up bad habits;
• Purchase only high-quality hypoallergenic cosmetics.

If a person knows that the whites of his eyes turn red due to the pollen of certain plants, he needs to start taking antihistamine tablets before they begin to bloom. The appointment time must be determined by the attending physician.

L.RU.MKT.CC.03.2018.2206

90,000 Swelling of the eyes in a child

Eyes are a kind of mirror of the soul, as their condition can tell about a person’s health, understand what his mood is. Sometimes it happens that the baby’s upper or lower eyelid swells.In this case, you should not wait until everything goes by itself. It is necessary to immediately respond to such an ailment so that there are no complications.

At the same time, it is also not worth panicking if the child has a swollen eye. The first step is to examine the baby. It is necessary to determine the symptoms of the disease, which may include the following:

• Redness.
• Itching.
• Pain.
• Rash.
• Reaction to bright light.
• Seals and bumps.

It is necessary to try to analyze the situations. Remember if your baby has been given any new food in recent days, because he may have allergies. Also examine the child or ask him if any insect has bitten. Any little detail will help you make a correct and quick diagnosis.

Main causes of edema in children

This ailment is a common disease. It is necessary to determine the causes of the swelling in order to cure the baby and try to prevent problems from occurring again.If you know why the eye is swollen, you can effectively provide first aid.

Possible causes of edema:

• Diseases of the eyes, for example, conjunctivitis and others.
• Injuries, wounds.
• Allergic reaction.
• Malfunctions in the body due to malfunctioning of internal organs.

According to global statistics, most infections are introduced into the human body through dirty hands. That is why, from a very early age, it is necessary to accustom the child to the rules of personal hygiene.You should wash your hands regularly, do not touch your face. Through good hygiene, many diseases can be prevented. Strengthen the baby’s immunity with vitamins, organize proper nutrition.

90,000 Severe tearing in the cold speaks of eye problems – Rossiyskaya Gazeta

On a frosty day, many people start to watery eyes. The reasons can be different: simple, easily eliminated, and more serious.

Here are the 7 main reasons for winter tears:

1.Cold conjunctivitis. Occurs in frost, with strong winds. Itching and redness appear in the eye area, increased lacrimation. To soften the sensation, put antihistamine drops in your eyes and nose before going outside. In the evening, it is good to make compresses from freshly brewed green or black tea bags at room temperature.

2. Sun allergy. Quite often lacrimation, a feeling of pain in the eyes occurs on a bright sunny day, when sparkling white snow lies around.This is how the retina and cornea react to excess ultraviolet light. In winter, the eyes are more susceptible to the negative effects of ultraviolet rays, because the sun at this time is located low above the horizon, and the reflectivity of snow and ice enhances the negative effect. The risk group includes primarily people with light-colored irises – blue, gray. They have little pigment that protects against ultraviolet radiation. Use sunglasses, but not as dark as in summer, but light gray, smoky.

3. Increased sensitivity of the cornea to frost, wind and other climatic manifestations. This may be a congenital pathology. In such cases, when going outside, also use sunglasses, and before a walk, drip vasoconstrictor drops into your nose so that breathing becomes free.

4. Age. In the elderly, the lumen of the nasolacrimal canal often decreases, the tone of the eyelids decreases, they seem to begin to sag and stop in contact with the cornea.Eyes cannot withstand the influence of cold air and watery. Exercise can help strengthen the muscles in your eyelids and lacrimal sac. The simplest of them is to blink, tightly closing the eyelids (5-10 times), in the morning and in the evening.

5. Dry eye syndrome. Occurs with a lack of tear fluid. The eye often dries up due to overdry air heating or a high concentration of car exhaust, which is much higher in winter than in summer. Artificial tear drugs are usually prescribed to protect the sensitive cornea.

6. Disorders of the lacrimal canal conduction. Only an ophthalmologist and an ENT specialist can determine this. The doctor will do a diagnostic lavage of the lacrimal-nasal passages. If the diagnosis is confirmed, physiotherapy for the nose and nasopharynx may be required, and in difficult cases, surgery.

7. Lack of vitamins. Hypovitaminosis is a common winter problem. Watery eyes are primarily due to a deficiency of vitamin B2 or potassium. This is accompanied by other symptoms: photophobia, drowsiness, fatigue, the appearance of “seizures” in the corners of the mouth.Lack of potassium can occur with frequent use of salt, strong tea and coffee, sleeping pills, diuretics, as well as physical strain. Urgently enrich your diet with foods rich in potassium and vitamin B2.

What to do?

• In case of severe lacrimation in the cold, be sure to consult an ophthalmologist. He will find out the reason and prescribe treatment.
• When removing a tear, blot the eyelid correctly, moving from the outer edge to the nose and up. It is less irritating to the eyes.
• Lotions from green or black tea bags can be used as first aid measures for eyes with lacrimation. They soothe the eyes and relieve irritation. You can also flush your eyes with a mild black tea solution.

By the way

The most healthy products for the eyes:

• Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins, which help to improve blood circulation in the eyeballs.
• Fish and seafood are sources of omega-3 fatty acids that prevent age-related retinal degeneration.
• Carrots are rich in retinol, the main ocular vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of the retina.
• Bell peppers, liver, eggs, butter and vegetable oil, nuts, sauerkraut, citrus fruits, kiwi, raspberries, rose hips are also useful.

Ito Clinic

Symptoms

Swelling of the thyroid gland (goiter)

In Hashimoto’s disease, the thyroid gland may swell and grow in size.This swelling can attract attention during screening and become a reason for visiting the hospital.
The size of the goiter can vary from nearly normal to clearly visible. The thyroid gland also swells with Graves’ disease, but the goiter caused by Hashimoto’s disease is relatively hard, and its surface appears bumpy.

■ Normal thyroid gland ■ Diffuse goiter

Symptoms due to hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition of deficiency of thyroid hormones in the blood.Since thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, a deficiency causes the following symptoms. With proper treatment, symptoms improve.
Patients with Hashimoto’s disease with normal thyroid function do not have the following thyroid-related symptoms.

(1) Edema

The peculiarity is to return the skin to its place when pressed with a finger. They appear throughout the body; there is a tendency for severe swelling of the face and hands in the morning and some improvement in the condition by noon.Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat may make the voice hoarse and difficult to speak.

■ Healthy state
(with normal function
thyroid gland) ■ Facial edema (with reduced
thyroid function)

(2) Skin symptoms

As the metabolism slows down, the skin becomes dry and flaky. Sweating decreases, hair loss may occur.

(3) Chills

Patients become sensitive to cold because the metabolic rate slows down and the amount of heat produced by the body decreases.

(4) Weight gain despite lack of appetite

Low gastrointestinal tract activity causes loss of appetite and reduced food intake, but patients gain weight due to metabolic slowdown and edema.There is also a feeling of tension in the abdomen and constipation.

(5) Pulse deceleration

The work of the heart slows down, the pulse also weakens and slows down. If hypothyroidism is severe, the bursa (pericardium) may fill with fluid, causing the heart to enlarge

(6) Lethargy

Patients lose interest in everything around them. They may become forgetful and passive, or feel constantly sleepy and depressed.Speech becomes slurred or slow.

(7) Muscle symptoms

Decreased muscle activity and muscle hardening may occur.

(8) Menstrual irregularities

Menses may become excessively heavy or prolonged.