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Eye Allergy Season

Springtime brings budding flowers and trees that are so pretty to look at, but its hard to see them through swollen red itchy eyes! Springtime is eye allergy season. The usual suspect is pollen but it can also be dust mites, dust and pet dander that has accumulated from the winter time in our homes.

To treat allergy eyes, find out what triggers them and stay ahead of the symptoms. Eye drops and other medications can bring relief.

Eye Allergy Triggers

Eye allergies, also known as “allergic conjunctivitis,” are caused by an overload of the immune system. The immune system is the body’s natural defense mechanism. Your body reacts to things that aren’t really harmful, like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander. It releases histamine, a chemical that causes swelling and inflammation. The blood vessels in your eyes swell and your eyes get red, teary, and itchy.You can be allergic to:

  • Pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees.
  • Dust, pet dander, and other indoor allergens.
  • Makeup, perfume, or other chemicals

These are just a few of the things you could potentially be allergic to. Be sure to check with your doctor to find out for sure.

Symptoms to Watch For

You may start to have symptoms as soon as the eyes come in contact with the allergen, or you may not have symptoms for several days. Symptoms of eye allergies include:

  • Red, irritated eyes
  • Itchiness
  • Tearing or runny eyes
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Soreness, burning, or pain
  • Sensitivity to light

Usually you’ll also have other allergy symptoms, such as a stuffy, runny nose and sneezing.

Treating Eye Allergies

Some of the same medicines you use for nasal allergies work for eye allergies too. For quick relief, over-the-counter eye drops and pills can help.

  • Antihistamine Pills and Eye Drops

  • Other Kinds of Eye Drops

Reducing Springtime Allergy Eyes Symptoms

  • Wear sunglasses when you go outside. They’ll block some of the pollen and other outdoor allergens from getting into your eyes.
  • Rinse your eyes with preservative-free saline water or apply a cold, wet washcloth.
  • Use lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) to moisten dry eyes and wash out allergens.
  • Take out your contact lenses.
  • Don’t rub your eyes, no matter how much they itch. It will only make the irritation worse.

And always, call your doctor right away if you develop severe eye pain or vision loss.


Source: webmd.com

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