Eye allergies, also sometimes called allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the eyes react to certain allergens in the environment. The eyes’ sensitivity to these allergens can trigger a range of uncomfortable symptoms– like redness, swelling, and itching. Understanding the symptoms, triggers, and available treatments for eye allergies is essential for managing this condition and minimizing its impact on overall well-being.
For same-day seasonal allergy treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Farmington. Our medical team can confirm you have an allergy or multiple allergies, find your triggers, and help educate you on how to minimize exposure to them. Just walk-in today!
Understanding Eye Allergies
Have you ever had your eyes red, swollen and itching all at the same time? If yes, then you probably already know what eye allergies are. Eye allergies are a reaction of the eyes to allergens. It is also called “Allergic Conjunctivitis” and the allergens can be anything from dust to pollen and even smoke. In reaction to the allergens, the eyes produce histamine to fight them off. The released histamine causes the eyes to become red, swollen and most times, itchy.
Eye allergies sometimes have the same symptoms as other eye diseases so it’s important to know the difference. Some common symptoms of eye allergies include:
- Itching of the eyes
- Swelling in the eyes
- Redness of the sclera (white part of the eye)
- Burning sensation in the eye
- Clear, watery discharge from the eyes (tears)
- Sensitivity to light
While these are the most common symptoms of eye allergies, some people experience associated nasal symptoms, including:
- Stuffy nose
- Itchy nose
- Frequent and recurrent sneezing
- Headache
- Itchy throat
- Sore throat
- Coughing
Triggers Of Eye Allergies
Eye allergies, like all other allergies, are caused by allergens. Allergens are generally harmless to the body but the body’s immune system thinks otherwise so when the eyes are exposed to allergens, the mast cells in your eyes release histamine to fight them off and this is what triggers the symptoms of eye allergies.
Common allergens for the eyes include:
- Pollen
- Dust
- Smoke or exhaust
- Mold spores
- Pet dander
- Perfume
- Certain medications
- Cosmetics
Treatment Options For Eye Allergies
Eye allergies may be very discomforting but luckily, they can be treated. There are many remedies for eye allergies. Artificial tears are drops that help relieve the symptoms of eye allergies. They help to wash out the allergens from the eyes to reduce further irritation. Artificial tears also add moisture to the eyes to help in relieving dry and irritated eyes.
Artificial tears can be used without a prescription up to six times a day but make sure they don’t contain preservatives so they don’t cause further irritation.
Additionally, decongestants and antihistamines can majorly help in reducing the redness of the eyes. They can be made in the form of eye drops and are available in pharmacies as over-the-counter medicine. Antihistamine-enriched decongestants help in relieving itching in the eyes. Decongestants should not be used for more than 3 days to avoid increasing irritation. Immunotherapy shots are often the last resort for persistent and severe allergic reactions that don’t resolve with all other eye allergy treatment. Immunotherapy involves medical professionals exposing you to very little amounts of allergens to help your body build more resistance to the allergen over time.
Get Same-Day Allergy Relief at AFC Urgent Care Farmington
If you experience persistent or severe eye allergies, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and treatment recommendations. At AFC Urgent Care Farmington, we can help identify your specific triggers and develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage your seasonal allergies. There's no need to wait for an appointment to get relief. Simply come to our walk-in clinic and expect skilled allergy care. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact our office directly at (505) 326-6000.
