Eye allergies can cause discomfort, itching, swelling, redness, and light-sensitivity. When these symptoms strike, it can be hard to navigate daily activities. At Advanced Eye Care Services in State College, we want to equip you with the right knowledge and tools to effectively combat eye allergies this spring.
When you are experiencing eye allergies, or any other eye conditions, we can provide comprehensive eye exams and treatments to help you find relief.
What Causes Eye Allergies?
Eye allergies (allergic conjunctivitis) are often caused by a range of environmental factors or irritants that contact your eyes. Your immune system identifies these harmless substances as threats and releases chemicals, like histamines, to combat this perceived threat. This causes the uncomfortable symptoms that we associate with allergies. Some common allergens that trigger eye allergies include:
- Pollen: This is one of the most common triggers, especially during spring, summer, and fall.
- Dust Mites: These tiny bugs thrive in dust and can be found in bedding, carpets, and upholstery.
- Pet Dander: Proteins found in animal skin cells, saliva, and urine can trigger allergies.
- Mold: Mold spores in damp areas can become airborne and irritate your eyes.
- Smoke and Pollution: Industrial pollutants, exhaust fumes, and cigarette smoke can worsen eye allergies.
- Cosmetics: Ingredients in makeup, lotions, or even some eye drops can irritate the eyes.
- Seasonal Changes: Dry, windy, or cold weather can aggravate eye allergies. This can be worsened by indoor heating or air conditioning.
Common Symptoms of Eye Allergies
The symptoms of eye allergies can often overlap with symptoms of other common eye conditions, such as dry eye or infections, so it is important that you cross out any other potential causes to find the right management solutions.
Red, Itchy, or Watery Eyes
Your eyes may look pink or red due to the dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva (the thin, transparent layer that covers the white of your eyes). If the redness is severe or accompanied by pain, it could indicate an infection rather than an allergy.
You may experience an irresistible urge to rub your eyes, which only makes things worse. This is because your body releases histamines, which can make your eyes feel an itchy sensation. Try not to rub your eyes when you experience itchiness since this can lead to a higher risk of infection.
Swollen or Puffy Eyelids
Your eyelids might appear swollen during an allergic reaction. This is because inflammation from histamine release can cause fluid to build up in the eyelids. If the swelling is severe or accompanied by pain, it might indicate something other than allergies, like an eye infection.
Burning or Gritty Eyes
Your eyes may feel like they are on fire or have a gritty sensation. This could feel like there is sand in your eyes. This happens because inflammation from allergens can irritate the surface of the eyes, leading to discomfort. A cool compress or preservative-free artificial tears can help reduce the burning feeling.
Light Sensitivity
When you are having an allergic eye reaction, bright lights become uncomfortable or painful to look at. This happens because inflammation can make the eyes more sensitive to light. To combat this symptom, you should wear sunglasses when outside and reduce screen brightness indoors.
How to Manage Eye Allergies
Managing eye allergies can be a bit of a challenge, especially during allergy season. Here are some practical tips and strategies to help reduce symptoms and keep your eyes comfortable:
- Minimize Allergen Exposure: To avoid exposure to allergens, try to stay indoors, close windows, shower after being outside, and wear protective eyewear.
- Keep Your Home Allergen-Free: Use air purifiers, vacuum your home regularly, wash your curtains, rugs, and upholstery, and control the humidity in your home.
- Practice Good Eye Hygiene: Don't touch or rub your eyes, wash your hands, remove your contact lenses, and clean your eyewear.
- Use Over-the-Counter (OTC) Remedies: There are several remedies that you can use at home to soothe your eye allergies such as artificial tears, antihistamine eye drops, decongestant eye drops, mast cell stabilizers, and oral antihistamines.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Stay hydrated, wear protective gear, use humidifiers in dry environments, and maintain a clean contact lens routine.
Get Relief from Eye Allergies in State College
During your visit, we will take the time to thoroughly assess your symptoms, discuss your specific triggers, and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle. Whether it is prescription eye drops, managing chronic allergy issues, or simply getting expert advice on reducing your symptoms, we are here to support your eye health every step of the way.
Don’t let eye allergies hold you back from enjoying your day-to-day life. Book your appointment at Advanced Eye Care Services in State College to see clearly and comfortably, no matter the season.