Eye Allergies

What are eye allergies?

Eye allergies are your body’s response to allergens or substances that cause negative reactions in some people. While not necessarily cause for concern, eye allergies can cause unpleasant symptoms and even affect your vision when not addressed. See the Vistasite Eye Care of Valley Stream experts if eye allergies are getting the best of you. 

What are the symptoms of eye allergies?

Eye allergies can cause the following symptoms:

• Red eyes
• Eye irritation
• Itching
• Burning
• Clear, watery discharge
• Puffy eyelids
• Dark circles under your eyes

You may develop sneezing, nasal congestion, sniffling, or other allergic reactions along with eye allergy symptoms. 

Which triggers can cause eye allergies?

Eye allergies could develop because of exposure to:

• Pollens from weeds, trees, or grass
• Pet dander
• Dust mites
• Mold spores
• Other indoor allergens
• Cigarette smoke
• Diesel exhaust
• Perfume
• Additional air irritants

Avoiding such eye irritants can minimize the symptoms you experience due to eye allergies.

How are eye allergies diagnosed?

Diagnosing eye allergies consists of a review of your symptoms, a discussion of your medical history, and a comprehensive eye exam. Your optometrist also completes vision screenings, tear tests, imaging procedures, and other diagnostic tests as needed to detect underlying eye health issues. They develop eye allergy treatment plans that provide the most symptom relief. 

How are eye allergies treated?

Treating eye allergies may involve:

• Lifestyle changes
• Artificial tears
• Eye drops
• Allergy shots
• Nasal sprays
• Over-the-counter medications
• Prescription medications 

Keep your windows closed during high-pollen times of the year, use air filters in your home, and wear sunglasses when you’re outdoors to protect your eyes from pollen. Use a dehumidifier to reduce mold and clean your home regularly. 

See an allergist in addition to your eye doctor to better manage seasonal allergies.

The Vistasite Eye Care of Valley Stream team helps manage your symptoms long-term and correct any vision issues, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Follow up with them yearly or as needed for routine eye exams and vision screenings. They offer treatments for dry eyes, red eyes, glaucoma, cataracts, and other eye diseases. 

Schedule an eye exam at Vistasite Eye Care of Valley Stream by phone or online today to eliminate bothersome symptoms of eye allergies.