Medical Centric

EYE ALLERGIES

Men's Health, Women's Health / By

EYE ALLERGIES

An eye allergy is an immune response that occurs when the eye comes in contact with an irritating substance, known as allergy.

  • The function of the immune system is to defend the body against harmful invaders, such as bacteria and viruses.
  • In an eye allergy, the immune system mistakes an allergy for a dangerous substance, causing the immune system to overreact and produce antibodies called immunoglobulin (IgE)
  • These antibodies travel to the cells in the eye, and in turn, causes it to release histamines and other chemicals in an effort to protect the eyes.
  • It is this chemical reaction that causes the symptoms associated with the condition.
  • An eye allergy may happen at any time of the year. However, it is common in the spring, summer, and fall months when vegetations such as trees, grasses, and plants are in bloom.

CAUSES

An eye allergy is caused by allergens in the air both indoors and outdoors including:

  • Smoke
  • Pet Dander
  • Dust
  • Mold
  • Pollen from grass, ragweed, and trees

SYMPTOMS

  • Itchy or burning eyes
  • Red eyes
  • Watery eyes
  • Swollen eyelids, especially in the morning
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurry vision
  • Tearing

In some cases, eye allergies may be accompanied by nasal allergies. In such cases, other symptoms may include:

  • Sneezing
  • Itchy nose
  • Stuffy nose and runny nose

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

To make a diagnosis, the doctor will review your allergy history and examine your eyes. This examination may reveal eyelid swelling and dilated blood vessels.

The doctor may also order one of the following tests:

  • A blood test to see if your body is producing antibodies or proteins, to protect itself against allergens.
  • An allergy skin test where your skin is exposed to specific allergens and the doctor examine your body to see if there is an adverse reaction. A red, swollen bump will indicate an allergic reaction. This test allows the doctor to identify which allergens you are most sensitive to, allowing them to determine the best course of treatment.
TREATMENT

Treatment options include:

Medications

  • Steroids
  • Antihistamines
  • Decongestants

Eye drops

Allergy shots if symptoms don’t improve with medications. The allergy shots help to modify your body’s response to the allergen, leading to a reduction in the severity of your reaction. They can be effective in providing long-term resistance to the allergens

Natural remedies

The best way to avoid an eye allergy is to stay clear of allergens triggering allergic reactions. This may include:

  • staying indoors when pollen counts are high
  • reducing the amount of dust present in your home
  • wearing sunglasses to prevent pollen