We’re all advised to avoid touching our eyes to stop bacteria, viruses, and even debris from getting into the eyes. However, it can be difficult to not itch your eyes when you’re struggling with allergies.
Eye allergies can be a major disruption to your day, causing severe itching that just won’t seem to let up. But by learning about the triggers, symptoms, and treatments for eye allergies, you can more effectively prevent this common eye concern.
Triggers
There are many different allergy triggers that can lead to symptoms in the eyes. These include:
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Dust mites
- Makeup, perfume, and some skincare products
- Contact lens allergy (giant papillary conjunctivitis)
Symptoms
The predominant symptom of eye allergies is itching. Patients most commonly experience itchiness in the nose side of the eyelid. Swelling may accompany the itching and, if it becomes severe, lead to the cracking of the skin.
Other symptoms that may be caused by eye allergies include:
- Runny eyes
- Soreness or burning
- Redness
- Light sensitivity
Patients usually also have allergy symptoms like nasal congestion, a runny nose, and frequent sneezing. Oral anti-allergy medication can often be used to manage these symptoms, but it doesn’t provide significant relief for eye allergies.
Treatments
The good news is that the most effective prescription eye drop of the last 3 decades is now available without a prescription. Pataday is wonderful. It works 95% of the time. It often lasts 24 hours. Best of all, if used every day, it prevents an allergic reaction in the first place.
The other over-the-counter, anti-allergy eye drops, most are dated prescription drops that don’t come close to Pataday’s effectiveness. Their price difference isn’t worth it. These drops tend to only provide two hours of relief, except for Zaditor which lasts maybe 12.
The other prescription allergy drops are usually much more expensive and not as good as Pataday. We don’t usually recommend them.
If you have severe eye allergies, mild steroid drops for a short period may be an effective treatment. However, close monitoring from your doctor is required for this treatment route. Glaucoma and cataract can result from unmonitored use.
To receive a treatment plan for your eye allergies, schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahootchi at The Eye Clinic of Florida by calling 813-779-3338.