Eye Allergies

Eye allergies, also called allergic conjunctivitis, are an ocular reaction that occurs when exposed to a substance that usually isn’t harmful. This substance is an allergen. When the allergen contacts the eye, it results in the release of histamines, causing itchiness, redness, and swelling.

Potential causes of eye allergies include pollen, animal dander, dust, mold, and so forth.

Majority of the people will treat their nasal allergy symptoms, but ignore their itchy, red, watery eyes.

The most common eye allergy symptoms include:

• Itching, red or swollen eyes
• Burning, soreness or pain
• Clear, watery discharge
• Sensitivity to light

The primary types of eye allergy are:

Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC)
Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) is by far the most common type of eye allergy. Patients experience symptoms in spring, summer or fall, depending on the type of plant pollen in the air.

Perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC)
Perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC), occurs year-round. Symptoms are the same as with SAC, but tend to be milder. They are caused by reactions to dust mites, mold, pet dander or other household allergens, rather than pollen.

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is a more serious eye allergy than SAC or PAC. It can occur year-round and the symptoms may worsen seasonally. Primarily occurs in boys and young men; about 75% of patients also have eczema or asthma. If left untreated, vernal keratoconjunctivitis can impair vision.

Atopic keratoconjunctivitis
Symptoms of atopic keratoconjunctivitis can occur year-round and are similar to those of vernal keratoconjunctivitis. This type of allergy primarily affects older patients - mostly men with a history of allergic dermatitis.

Contact allergic conjunctivitis
This can result from irritation by contact lenses or by the proteins from tears that bind to the surface of the lens.

Giant papillary conjunctivitis
Associated with wearing contact lenses, giant papillary conjunctivitis is a severe form of contact allergic conjunctivitis in which individual fluid sacs, or papules, form in the upper lining of the inner eyelid. 

Eye allergy could be triggers by the following:

• Outdoor allergens, such as pollens from grass, trees and weeds
• Indoor allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites and mold
• Irritants, such as cigarette smoke, perfume and diesel exhaust

People could inherit eye allergies from their parents. A patient is more likely to have allergies if both of their parents have them than if only one does.

Call 469.490.ENVY (3689) to schedule an eye allergies evaluation or schedule an appointment online.

The doctors at Envy Eye Care specializes in treating eye allergies. Depending on the severity and symptoms of the patient's eye allergies, treatment could include:

• Artificial tears
• Decongestant eye drops
• Oral antihistamines
• Prescription eye drops
• Non Sedating oral antihistamines

Call 469.490.ENVY (3689) to schedule an eye allergies evaluation or schedule an appointment online today.