If you suffer from eye allergies, spring and summer can be brutal. Plants are in full bloom, and it seems that each week brings a new species of pollen to irritate your eyes. If you wear contacts, your symptoms may be even worse, since the lenses can trap irritants and allergens. Fortunately, LASIK (laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis) can correct your vision so that you can eliminate or reduce the need for corrective lenses. Dr. Peña will evaluate your eyes to make sure that your symptoms are actually allergy-related, and not the result of infection or some other problem. Then he will determine your candidacy for laser vision correction. To learn more about eye allergies and LASIK, contact us today.
Causes and Symptoms of Eye Allergies
Eye allergies occur when your eyes respond to certain substances, or allergens, in the air. Common allergens include pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander. These allergens, which would normally not be problematic, will trigger the release of histamine. In turn, histamine and other chemicals will cause tiny blood vessels to leak. The symptoms of eye allergies can include:
- Dry eyes
- Watery eyes
- Itchiness
- Redness
- Swollen eyelids
In most cases, both eyes will have an allergic reaction at the same time. Allergy symptoms can mimic the signs of other, more serious conditions. Therefore, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis if you are experiencing any of the side effects listed above.
How LASIK Can Assist with Your Allergies
If you suffer from eye allergies, wearing contacts during the spring and summer can be uncomfortable, if not impossible. LASIK can reduce or eliminate the need for them altogether. Dr. Peña will use our advanced, blade-free techniques to create a flap in the front of your cornea. Using Zyoptix™ technology, he can create a map of your eye. Then he will calibrate the laser to match the precise dimensions of your cornea and retina. Using an excimer laser, he will then reshape your cornea. This process will allow light to pass through your eye correctly, focusing on the back of your retina.
Find out If You Are a Candidate for LASIK
Don’t let allergies make spring and summer a nightmare. Contact us today to learn more about laser vision correction and find out if it is a viable option for you.
