Also referred to as allergic conjunctivitis or ocular allergies, eye allergies are usually sparked by the same irritants that cause sneezing, a runny nose, itchiness, and other allergy symptoms. Common airborne allergens include dust, pollen, pet dander and mould. When these irritate the conjunctivitis and eyelids, an eye allergy occurs. Unlike some other types of conjunctivitis, eye allergies do not spread from person to person.
Certain cosmetic products, makeup, and eye drops can also cause eye allergies. It is essential to test products with small drops before using them in full. It is also recommended to read product labels and consult with an eye care professional if there are any doubts or concerns. Preservative-free eye drops are also advisable as they are less likely to cause irritation.
The symptoms of an eye allergy can include the following:
Eye allergies can sometimes be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nasal allergies, which may cause an itchy or stuffy nose and sneezing. Additionally, eczema can also be present in some cases. However, eye allergies can also occur independently without any other symptoms.
There are a variety of eye allergy triggers, including:
Though you may not be able to avoid an eye allergy altogether, you can take several measures to reduce its symptoms.
Eye allergies have symptoms similar to those of certain eye conditions, making it crucial to get an accurate diagnosis and identify the root cause. An allergist or ophthalmologist can conduct tests to reveal whether these shared symptoms are the result of an eye allergy.
An eye allergy diagnosis may involve examining the eye with a microscope to see swollen blood vessels on the surface of the eye. The ophthalmologist might also take a culture scraping from the conjunctiva to test for a certain type of white blood cells that signify an eye allergy.
You may not be able to get rid of eye allergies for good; however, prescription eye drops and medications can reduce the symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe the following, as well as eye drops for allergies:
Here are certain ways to manage eye allergies:
It is a good idea to seek advice from your doctor or optician, as they can give you tailored advice based on your symptoms and discuss additional measures.
There are various eye drops which can help relieve symptoms of eye allergies, and it would be best to see an eye care professional to determine which ones are the best for you. Some are available over the counter at the pharmacy/optician, and other stronger medicines need a prescription.
There are many signs that suggest an allergic reaction in your eye. However, to confirm whether these symptoms are related to an eye allergy, it is best to consult a doctor or an eye care professional for a medical diagnosis.
The duration of eye allergies can vary depending on the type and severity. Seasonal allergies can usually last between 4-8 weeks during the pollen season. Other allergies can be triggered at any time. An allergic reaction can persist as long as the allergen is present.
Eye allergies usually affect both eyes. However, if only one eye came into contact with the allergen, you may have an allergy in only one eye. For example, if only one eye is rubbed with the allergen.
Disclaimer: The advice in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical care or an in-person check-up. Please check with an eyecare professional before purchasing any products or remedies. For information on our article review process, please refer to our Editorial Policy.