Reviewed by Laura J. Martin, MD on March 22, 2010
Sources: © 2010 WebMD
Understanding Eye Allergies
Eye allergies causing red, puffy eyes? You're not alone -- millions of Americans cope with eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis. A cold compress can give you a quick fix before heading out in public. But for long-term relief, you need to identify triggers and treat symptoms.
Eye Allergy Symptoms
Symptoms can include redness in the white of the eye or the inner eyelid. Other signs: itchy eyes, tearing, blurred vision, burning sensation, eyelid swelling, and sensitivity to light. Eye allergies can occur alone or with nasal allergies and the allergic skin condition eczema.The only way to know for sure if it's eye allergies is to see your doctor.
Why Allergies Make Eyes Red
Eye allergies happen when your eyes are exposed to the offending allergen -- say pet dander or pollen. Cells in your eyes called mast cells release histamine and other chemicals, causing inflammation. The result: Itchy, red, and watery allergic eyes.
Don't Rub Your Eyes
It may be tempting, but rubbing itchy eyes can make things worse. Rubbing your eyes may cause the mast cells to release more of the chemicals that caused your eyes to itch in the first place! Instead, take contact lenses out (if you wear them), avoid eye make-up, and apply cool compresses to your eyes. Wash your hands often.
Eye Allergy Cover Up Tips
Apply a hypoallergenic concealer to help hide dark circles. Don't try to cover up with heavy makeup -- it will only call attention to red, watery eyes. Instead, emphasize another feature -- wear a pretty lipstick, for example.
Eye Allergy Triggers: Pollen
If your eyes well up around Mother Nature -- and not just because of all the beauty she inspires -- you may have seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Grass, tree, and weed pollens are the worst offenders. When pollen counts are high, stay indoors, keep your windows closed and the air conditioner on. Wear sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.
Eye Allergy Triggers: Pollen
If your eyes well up around Mother Nature -- and not just because of all the beauty she inspires -- you may have seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Grass, tree, and weed pollens are the worst offenders. When pollen counts are high, stay indoors, keep your windows closed and the air conditioner on. Wear sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.
Mop Away Allergens
If dust mites trigger your runny, watery eyes, invest in bedding and pillowcases that keep them out. Wash sheets in hot water, and try to keep the humidity levels in your home between 30 and 50%. Clean floors with a damp mop. Don't sweep, which stirs up allergens.
Eye Allergy Drops
Tear substitutes rinse the allergens out of your eye and keep eyes moist. Decongestant drops shrink blood vessels in your eyes, which decreases redness. But using them long-term can actually make symptoms worse. Both kinds of eye drops are available over the counter. People with certain conditions should not use certain types of eye drops, so ask your doctor.
Other Kinds of Eye Drops
Antihistamine eye drops reduce swelling, redness, and itching. Some eye drops combine both antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers. These drops are available OTC and by prescription. Other prescription options may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug eye drops and steroid-based eye drops.
Can Allergy Shots Help?
Allergy shots work well for eye allergies. Allergy shots (immunotherapy) help your immune system get used to the substances that cause your allergy symptoms. They are usually an option for severe allergies. Treatment can take months, and you may still need to use medicine. Are you a candidate? Talk to your doctor.
Ending Eye Allergies
From prevention and OTC artificial tears to prescription eye drops and allergy shots, there is a lot you can do to take the sting out of your eye allergies. Develop a plan of action with your doctor so today is the last day you have to put up with red, watery and itchy eyes.
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