Eye Allergies: Finding Relief for Red, Itchy, Watery eyes
There’s nothing worse than itchy, red, watery eyes. If you rub them, it only makes matters worse. Meanwhile, you might also find it difficult to concentrate or focus, making everyday tasks like reading or driving an arduous task. If you are suffering from eye redness, itchy or watery eyes, know that these symptoms are often related to allergies. To help you better understand this condition, we’ve broken down everything you need to know:
This short guide will break down the causes of eye irritation and how you can find some relief.
What Causes Eye Allergies
Usually, eye allergies are caused by some type of allergen. There are various types of allergens, but the most common are found in pollen, dust, and animal dander. These release histamines, or chemical compounds, in the tissues surrounding your eyes resulting in uncomfortable symptoms like eye redness.
There are two kinds of eye allergies: seasonal and perennial. The most common is seasonal conjunctivitis which typically occurs in spring and fall due to high pollen counts and other outdoor allergens. On the other hand, perennial allergens are something you suffer from year-round and come from sources like mold and dust.
Treatment for Eye Irritation and Redness
Fortunately, if you do happen to suffer from eye allergies there are multiple treatment options available. To begin with, apply a cool, damp washcloth and lay it over your eyes for ten minutes. Doing so reduces swelling and the severity of the allergic reaction.
From here, you may want to consider prescription eye drops or oral medications to provide relief. Antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin are a good start, but for those suffering from severe red eyes, you may need prescribed medicine.
Although they may provide temporary relief, do not rely on over-the-counter eye drops. They often contain compounds that are not suitable for long-term usage and may actually increase the severity of your symptoms.
The Best Approach to Solving Eye Redness
The first thing you need to do is establish whether you are suffering from perennial or seasonal eye allergies. Consult with your optometrist, who will thoroughly examine your eyes using optical tools. After examination, your doctor will provide you with a diagnosis along with a specialized treatment regimen. In some cases, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication or special eye cleansing products may be necessary depending on the severity of the condition.
If you suffer from seasonal eye allergies, it’s a good idea to stop by your eye doctor before spring or fall begins to have a quick checkup. Scheduling a yearly appointment ensures your prescriptions are all up to date.
Your Overall Eye Health
At the end of the day, it’s essential to maintain your overall eye health. Whether you are suffering from eye allergies, watery eyes, irritation or vision problems caused by other factors, it’s essential to get an annual eye screening from your doctor. This will allow your doctor to check for any changes in vision and ensure that your eyes stay healthy and comfortable all year round. So if you are suffering from any eye problem then be sure to make an appointment with one of our specialists right away!
