Understanding Eye Allergies
People often think of sneezing and stuffiness as the hallmarks of allergies, but the nose isn't the only body part that suffers during allergy season. People with allergies also can develop red, swollen, and itchy eyes when exposed to their allergic triggers.
Up to 40% of Americans have eye allergies. Some have irritated eyes only during allergy season. Others have eye allergies year round.
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Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, feathers, and other indoor or outdoor allergens can set off eye allergy symptoms. The best treatment is to know what causes them and stay ahead of the symptoms. Whether your allergies are seasonal or chronic, eye drops and other medications can help bring relief.
Eye Allergies Triggers
Eye allergies are also known as "allergic conjunctivitis." Just like any other allergic reaction, they are caused by a misfiring of the immune system, the body's natural defense mechanism.
When foreign bodies such as bacteria and viruses threaten an attack, the immune system arms itself with proteins called antibodies to fight off these invaders. When you have allergies, your body reacts to substances that aren't really harmful, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander.
The conjunctiva -- the clear membrane that covers the inside of the eyelids and the white part of the eye or sclera – gets irritated and inflamed. Mast cells -- cells of the immune system -- in the conjunctiva produce histamine, which causes the blood vessels in the eyes to swell. The result: redness, tearing, and irritation.
Types of eye allergies include:
- Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. These are the most common kinds of eye allergies. Pollen from grasses, weeds, and trees that trigger hay fever during allergy season also can cause itchy and watery eyes.
- Chronic (perennial) conjunctivitis. Allergic symptoms occur year round, caused by dust, animal dander, or other indoor allergens.
- Contact conjunctivitis. Make-up, perfume, or other chemicals trigger this type of eye allergy in some people.
- Giant papillary conjunctivitis. This allergy to contact lenses can make eyes sensitive and red.
Eye Allergies Symptoms
How fast the symptoms of eye allergies show up varies from person to person. Some people may start to have symptoms as soon as their eyes come in contact with the allergen. Others may not see symptoms for two to four days after exposure.
Symptoms of eye allergies include:
- red, irritated eyes
- itchiness
- tearing or runny eyes
- swollen eyelids
- soreness, burning, or pain
- sensitivity to light
Usually people with eye allergies also have other allergy symptoms, such as a stuffy, runny nose and sneezing.
Treating Eye Allergies
Some of the same general allergy treatments are used to treat eye allergies. For short-term relief, over-the-counter eye drops and oral medications can help. There are several medications commonly used to treat eye allergies:
Oral antihistamines work by blocking the actions of histamine to reduce itching and other allergy symptoms. If you have general allergy symptoms, you may already take one of these. Newer antihistamines are less likely than the older ones to cause drowsiness. Oral antihistamines are not always the best option for eye allergies, though, because they can dry out eyes and actually worsen eye symptoms.
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