What is eye allergy?
Eye allergies — red, itchy, watery eyes that are bothered by the same irritants (allergens) that cause sneezing and a runny nose among seasonal allergy sufferers — are very common.
Eye allergies (also called ocular allergies) also appear to be on the rise worldwide. In particular, increases in the environmental pollution in industrialized and developing nations appears to be a major contributor to the heightened sensitivity of allergic individuals and the increasing numbers of people suffering from ocular allergies.
What causes eye allergies
Normally harmless substances that cause problems for individuals who are predisposed to allergic reactions are called allergens. The most common airborne allergens that cause eye allergies are pollen, mold, dust and pet dander.
Eye allergies also can be caused by reactions to certain cosmetics or eye drops, including artificial tears used for treating dry eyes that contain preservatives.
Food allergies and allergic reactions to bee stings or other insect bites typically do not affect the eyes as severely as airborne allergens do.
Risk factors
People may have a higher risk of allergies if they are under 18 years old or have a personal or family history of asthma or allergies.
Some researchers have suggested that those born by cesarean delivery may also have a higher risk of allergies, as they do not have exposure to the mother’s microbiome during childbirth.
Eye allergy relief
Avoiding allergens. The best approach to controlling your eye allergy symptoms is to do everything you can to limit your exposure to common allergens you are sensitive to.
For example, on days when the pollen count is high, stay indoors as much as possible, with the air conditioner running to filter the air. Use high quality furnace filters that can trap common allergens and replace the filters frequently.
When you do go outdoors during allergy season, wear wraparound sunglasses to help shield your eyes from pollen, ragweed, etc., and drive with your windows closed.
Removing your contacts. Because the surface of contact lenses can attract airborne allergens, consider reducing your contact lens wear during allergy season. Or consider switching to daily disposable contacts that you discard after a single use to prevent allergens and other debris from accumulating on the lenses.
Often the best choice if allergies are bothering your eyes is to discontinue wearing contacts altogether — at least until all your allergy symptoms are gone. Also, wearing eyeglasses with photochromic lenses can reduce allergy-related sensitivity to light and can help shield your eyes from airborne allergens.
Over-the counter eye drops. Because eye allergies are so common, there are a number of brands of non-prescription eye drops available that are formulated to relieve itchiness, redness and watery eyes caused by allergies.
If your eye allergy symptoms are relatively mild, non-prescription eye drops for allergy relief may work very well for you. These also may be less expensive than prescription eye drops or other medications. Ask your eye doctor for recommendations.
Prescription medications. If your allergy symptoms are relatively severe or over-the-counter eye drops are ineffective at providing relief, you may need your eye doctor to prescribe a stronger medication.
Prevention and precautions
There is no way to prevent or cure an allergy, but it is possible to prevent a reaction or manage the symptoms if a reaction occurs.
Those at risk of an allergic reaction should:
- Take measures to avoid exposure to known allergens.
- Carry two auto-injectors and know how to use them correctly.
- Inform friends, relatives, colleagues, and others about the allergy and how to use the auto-injector.
- Consider wearing a medical identification bracelet with details of the allergy.
- Seek allergy testing to know which substances to avoid.
