5 Common Symptoms of Eye Allergies and How to Treat Them

Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, affect millions of individuals worldwide. Eye allergies result from the immune system's reaction to substances called allergens. The substances—such as pollen, mold, pet dander, or dust—are usually harmless.

When these substances encounter the eyes, they can trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals. Consequently, they can cause symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, watery eyes, and dry eyes. Treatment for eye allergies often involves avoiding the allergens causing the reaction. You can use over-the-counter or prescription medications and apply cool compresses to the eyes.
 

Red Eyes

Allergic conjunctivitis can cause the blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, resulting in redness. It can be mild or severe and may affect one or both eyes. It is vital to avoid the allergens causing the reaction, if possible.

Over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops can help reduce redness. They can reduce other symptoms, such as itching and swelling. In addition, cool compresses applied to the eyes can help reduce redness and swelling and relieve discomfort.
 

Swollen Eyelids

Allergic conjunctivitis can cause the eyelids to become swollen, resulting in a feeling of pressure or discomfort. The swelling can be mild or severe and may affect one or both eyelids.

Use a cold compress or over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops to help with the swelling and inflammation. If the swelling is severe or persistent, see a doctor for prescription-strength medication.
 

Light Sensitivity

Eye allergies can cause the eyes to become sensitive to light, resulting in discomfort or pain when exposed to bright light. The sensitivity can be mild or severe and may make it difficult to perform activities such as reading or driving.

To reduce sensitivity to light, try wearing sunglasses outdoors or in bright lighting. You can also try artificial tears or over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops. These treatments can help reduce the inflammation and sensitivity caused by allergens. If the sensitivity is severe or persistent, you may need to see a doctor for prescription-strength medication.

Itchiness

Itchiness is the most common symptom of eye allergies and can range from mild to severe. Itching can result from allergens, such as pollen, dust, pet dander, and mold. For help, try using artificial tears or over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops.

The eye drops can help reduce the inflammation and itching caused by allergens. If the itching is severe or persistent, you may need to see a doctor for prescription-strength medication.

Watery Discharge From the Eyes

Eye allergies can cause the eyes to produce excess tears, resulting in a watery discharge. The discharge can be clear, white, or yellow, mostly more noticeable in the morning when you wake up.

To reduce watery discharge, use artificial tears or over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops. These eye drops can help reduce the inflammation and excess tears caused by allergens. If the watery discharge is severe or persistent, you may need to see a doctor for prescription-strength medication.

For more about eye allergies, visit Brandon Eyes at our office in Middleton or Madison, Wisconsin. Call (608) 833-7256 or (608) 833-0301 to book an appointment today.