Allergies can be a real pain

They can cause irritating symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes and sneezing

Allergies can be a real pain

They can cause irritating symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes and sneezing

Eye allergies are not just annoying

They can also have serious consequences if left untreated

Eye Allergies symptoms

Eye allergies, also called “allergic conjunctivitis”, are common eye conditions.

The tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and outside the eyeball is called the conjunctiva. This tissue keeps your eyelid and eyeball moist. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when this tissue becomes inflamed. If you suffer from eye allergies, you usually see redness and itching in both eyesinstead of in just one eye.

The common symptoms of eye allergies are:

  • Redness
  • Itchiness
  • Burning feeling
  • Watery eyes
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Feeling like dirt or grit is 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 feel distracted, unproductive or tired.

What causes eye allergies?

Eye allergies are a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens that get into your eyes. Examples include pollen, mould spores, dust mites and pet dander. Eye allergies are not contagious. Therefore, they cannot 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. 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 can cause 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 quickly to the other eye within two days or less. This eye condition is easily transmitted from person to person. But it is usually not a serious health risk if diagnosed right away.

An allergist can perform a skin or blood test to help identify the specific allergen(s).

Treatments 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:

  • Saline eye drops to wash away the allergens.
  • Examination by our doctors who might prescribe certain medications according to severity.
  • Eye allergy symptoms may disappear completely when the allergen is removed or after the allergy is treated.

How can you 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.
  • 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 mould seasons.

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Academic resources on Eye Allergies

Learn more about Eye Allergies from authoritative sources

Eye allergies, also called allergic conjunctivitis, are quite common and occur when the eyes react to something that irritates them, i.e. An allergen. The eyes produce a substance called histamine to fight off the allergen. As a result, the eyelids and conjunctiva become red, swollen and itchy. Click here to read more.

Nothing is more irritating than the feeling that there is something in your eye. But if your eyes are red and irritated, and you don’t see anything in them, it could be allergies. This paper comprises of eye allergy triggers, management and treatment. Click here to read more.

An eye allergy, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, is an adverse immune response that occurs when the eye comes into contact with an irritating substance. This substance is known as an allergen. Click here to read more.

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Mr Mohamed Elalfy

MBBCh, MSc, MD, DRCOphth, FRCS (Ed), FRCS (Glas), FRCOphth, FICO, FEBO
Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Seeking eye treatment for a worrying eye condition can be stressful. Waitlists everywhere are long due to the lockdowns, and leaving the house to attend appointments can be a real inconvenience.

To make your experience as easy and stress-free as possible, we provide assessments in your local area. We also offer online appointments both before and after your treatment, so you don’t have to travel far to get the personalised support you deserve.

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