MONTENARE EYE CARE
& VISION THERAPY
EYE ALLERGIES
What Is It?
Eye allergies - otherwise known as allergic conjunctivitis - is the body's response to an environmental allergen (e.g. dust or pollen) that interacts with the ocular surface.
When this occurs, the immune system makes antibodies that cause your eyes to release histamine, a strong chemical mediator in the local immune response. This causes redness, itching, burning, and congestion.
What Type Do You Have?
There are generally two types of eye allergies - seasonal and perennial:
Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis is the more common type, usually occurring in the early spring or fall. Allergens are typically pollen, grasses, trees, weeds, or mold spores.
Perennial allergic conjunctivitis, although less common, occurs year-round. This is usually due to pets, dust mites, feather bedding, smoke, perfumes, or cosmetics.
Common Symptoms
The most common symptoms of eye allergies include:
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Burning
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Itching
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Redness
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Tearing
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Lid swelling
What to Do
If you feel like you're suffering from eye allergies, here are some basic things you can do:
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Stay indoors when pollen counts are high (close the windows and use the AC)
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Wear eye glasses or sun-glasses when going outdoors to block your eyes from the pollen
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If allergic to dust-mites, use special anti-allergen pillow covers and wash your bedding frequently in hot water
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Stay away from known triggers such as pets or smoke
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Use over-the-counter allergy eye drops as directed
Remember to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor first to diagnose and treat ocular allergies. Your eye doctor will confirm the presence of allergic conjunctivitis and prescribe ocular medications to relieve symptoms fast.