How is eye allergy treated?

When someone says “I have an allergy”, we expect them to sneeze or have a runny nose but the nose is not the only part of the body that receives the fire of an allergic attack. He may also have red, swollen, itchy eyes.

Common suspects – pollen, dust mites, mold, smoke and pets – can cause eye allergies. To treat it, find out what is causing your symptoms and avoid allergens.

Eye allergy is also known as allergic conjunctivitis. The eye is covered by a thin film called the conjunctiva. When the conjunctiva is irritated or inflamed, conjunctivitis may occur.

Just like any other allergy, allergic conjunctivitis is caused by an incorrect reaction of the immune system. When you have an allergy the body reacts to stimuli that are not really harmful. It releases histamine, a molecule that causes swelling and inflammation. The blood vessels in the eyes swell and the eyes turn red, you cry and itch. The most common allergen is spring pollen but also perfumes and makeup can cause conjunctivitis, even contact lenses making your eyes sensitive and red.

Common symptoms

The most important symptom of allergic conjunctivitis is itching [1]. Other symptoms include red or irritated eyes, tears, swollen eyelids, pain, burning sensation and sensitivity to light. They may start as soon as your eyes come in contact with the allergen or you may have no symptoms for two to four days.

Ηοw to treat eye allergy

Antihistamine eye drops work well for itchy, watery eyes.

The ways to prevent and treat your symptoms are:

• Avoid going outdoors when pollen is high. Pollen is usually higher at 9-10 in the morning and early in the evening. Also, avoid being outdoors when the wind blows because it carries pollen.
• Because histamine, the substance that causes the symptoms, is released when the eyes come in contact with allergens, when you go out, wear large sunglasses that are good to have a wide frame on the side. This will better protect your eyes from the sun and you will have a shield against pollen and other allergens.
• When returning home, wash your eyes with saline without preservatives or apply a cold, damp cloth.
• Use artificial tears to moisturize your dry eyes and rinse off allergens.
• Keep windows closed and use air conditioning, both at home and in the car. This will help reduce your exposure to pollen and other irritants.
• If mold triggers your allergy, keep your home humidity level between 30% and 50% [2]. You often clean high humidity areas such as basements, bathrooms and kitchens. Also consider using a dehumidifier for wet areas of your home and clean the dehumidifier regularly.
• To reduce your exposure to dust mites, use special pillowcases that do not absorb them. Wash bed linen often with warm water. If your mattress is old, consider buying a new one. Also, clean the floors with a damp mop because a simple wipe does not rid you of allergens.
• If you have a pet, consider not laying carpets that trap and trap allergens. Curtains can also be a problem.
• Do not rub your eyes, no matter how much itching you have as this aggravates the irritation.
• See a doctor right away if you have severe eye pain or can’t see well.

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References

1. Allergic conjunctivitis.
2. Eye Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment.