Eye Allergy Treatment

Eye allergy treatment is a must if you suffer from allergies!

Eye allergies flare up during the spring, summer and fall months, when the eye is exposed to allergens like pollen. Additionally, eye allergies can occur alone or alongside other allergies, such as nasal.

Allergies usually manifest physically with redness in the white of your eye or your eyelid. Itching, blurry vision, tearing, burning, swelling in the eyelids and light sensitivity can accompany redness and irritation. If you’re unsure whether your discomfort is from allergies or another condition, a comprehensive eye exam can help provide answers.

Schedule an Appointment

Eye Allergies Affect How Your Eyes Function

If eye allergies affect you, you should be aware of both indoor and outdoor triggers. Indoor triggers include dust, pet dander and mold. You’ll find outdoor triggers as allergens in nature, such as pollens.

Remember that if you’re experiencing an allergy flare-up, it’s important to not touch or rub your eyes. Doing so only makes matters worse because it causes your cells to release more of the chemicals making your eyes itchy in the first place! Eye allergy treatment is your best defense.

Eye allergy symptoms can also overlap with other conditions like dry eyes, which makes a proper diagnosis important.

Chronic Eye Allergy Treatment

We offer a number of treatments for allergies, depending on their type and severity. Our licensed optometrists can help you decide which of these options fits your needs best:

  • Eye drops
  • Cell stabilizers and antihistamines that prevent the release of chemicals causing itching in your body/eyes
  • Decongestants that contract blood vessels to reduce redness
  • Liquid drops that wash away allergens
  • Oral medications
    • Note: Oral medications can help control your symptoms. Some medications have side effects that can dry your eyes, and they may cause sleepiness or dizziness.
  • Allergy shots
    • Note: Allergy shots build up your immune system to have a resistance to the allergens triggering your symptoms. They’re a good option for patients with severe allergies.

If your symptoms are sudden, extreme, or accompanied by swelling around the eyes, you may need immediate help. Learn what to do in case of Eye Care Emergencies.

FAQ: Allergy Treatment

Use these FAQs to understand eye allergy symptoms, treatment options and when to schedule an allergy-focused eye exam.

How can I tell if my eye symptoms are from allergies or something more serious?

Allergies often cause redness, itching, tearing, burning and swollen eyelids in both eyes. Infections may cause pain, discharge or vision changes and sometimes affect just one eye. Because symptoms can overlap with dry eye or other issues, a comprehensive eye exam is the safest choice.

What eye allergy treatments do you offer?

We offer prescription and nonprescription eye drops, antihistamines, cell stabilizers, decongestant drops and oral medications when needed. For severe or long-lasting allergies, allergy shots can help your body build resistance to specific triggers. We’ll review your symptoms, lifestyle and medical history to choose the safest, most effective plan.

When should I see an eye doctor for allergies instead of just using over-the-counter drops?

See an eye doctor if your symptoms are new, severe or not improving with over-the-counter allergy drops. You should also come in if you have eye pain, vision changes or swelling around your eyes. We can confirm that allergies are the cause and rule out infections or other eye conditions.

Is it safe to wear contact lenses when I have eye allergies?

Contacts can trap allergens on the eye surface and worsen symptoms. During flares, we may suggest switching to glasses temporarily. Daily disposable contacts can be more comfortable for some allergy patients.

Can I do anything at home to reduce eye allergy symptoms?

Yes, applying cool compresses, using artificial tears and keeping windows closed during high-pollen days can help. Washing bedding frequently and using air filters can also reduce indoor triggers.