Many people look forward to spring for the warmer weather, the blooming flowers, and the break from winter. One drawback of the spring season is allergies. Allergies can cause uncomfortable symptoms, including congestion, headaches, and nasal drip. For many, allergies also target the eyes.
Eye allergies may come on suddenly, leaving people to wonder what is wrong with their eyes and how to treat it. Dr. Raul Peña of Peña Eye Institute in Harlingen, TX, helps patients understand eye allergies and the common signs, triggers, and treatments for this irritating condition. Patients can minimize allergy symptoms and enjoy the warm spring months with proper care.
What Are Eye Allergies?
Eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, are a common problem. While many people experience eye allergies, the symptoms are not usually constant. Instead, symptoms develop periodically when an allergen reacts with the eyes and causes irritation. The allergen stimulates the body’s immune system, causing the eyes to produce histamine, which fights off the allergen. As histamine works to rid the body of allergens, it causes noticeable symptoms.
Eye Allergy Symptoms
Everyone experiences allergy symptoms differently. When allergies affect the eyes, the most common symptoms include:
- Red eyes
- Dry, itchy eyes
- General irritation or a burning sensation
- Excessive tearing
- Eye sensitivity
- Red, swollen eyelids
Many of our Harlingen patients experience nasal symptoms as well as eye allergy symptoms. Nasal allergy symptoms may include a stuffy or itchy nose, sneezing, headache, and an itchy or sore throat.
Eye Allergy Triggers
Many different allergens can trigger eye allergies. Most allergens are generally harmless. It is the reaction with the body’s immune system and the production of histamine that creates allergy symptoms. Allergens do not have to come into direct contact with the eye to cause irritation. Allergens in the air (both inside and outside) can trigger eye allergies. Common eye allergy triggers include:
- Pollen (seasonal allergies)
- Dust
- Pet dander
- Mold
- Smoke
Diagnosing Eye Allergies
Eye allergy symptoms are similar to symptoms of other eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and eye infection. A comprehensive eye exam is the most accurate way to diagnose eye allergies. Dr. Peña examines the surface of the eye to look for swollen blood vessels and other signs of eye allergies. An eye exam, along with a discussion of the patient’s medical history and family allergy history, is often enough to make a diagnosis.
Eye Allergy Treatments
Avoiding contact with the allergens that trigger allergies is the best way to prevent eye allergy symptoms. However, complete avoidance is not always possible. Our Harlingen patients can instead rely on eye drops and medication to control allergy symptoms and restore eye comfort. Potential eye allergy treatments include:
- Artificial tears
- Oral antihistamines
- Antihistamine eye drops
- Decongestants
- Steroid eye drops
Dr. Peña can recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on each patient’s type and severity of symptoms.
Contact Peña Eye Institute
Eye allergies can cause irritation, inflammation, and other uncomfortable symptoms. If you suspect that you are experiencing eye allergies and would like to learn more about potential treatments, contact Peña Eye Institute and schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.
