Treatment Options For Eye Allergies
When you suffer from eye allergies, many treatments are available to help alleviate the symptoms. Depending on the type and severity of your eye allergies Bronx, your doctor may recommend different treatment options.
Your doctor will first need to diagnose the type of eye allergies you have. The diagnosis entails a thorough eye exam and, in some cases, allergen testing. Once the diagnosis is complete, your doctor can determine your best treatment.
Types of eye allergy
These are some of the types you should know:
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: An inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by an allergy. Symptoms include redness, itchiness, and watery eyes. Treatment may include antihistamines and eye drops to reduce symptoms.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, this condition is caused by a lack of tears to keep the eye moist. Treatment may include artificial tears, lubricants, and immunosuppressant medications.
- Keratitis: This is an inflammation of the cornea, usually caused by infection or an allergy. Treatment may include antibiotics, and steroid drops to reduce inflammation.
- Uveitis is an inflammation of the eye’s middle layer that can be caused by infection or an allergy. Treatment may include medications such as corticosteroids or immune-suppressing drugs.
No matter what type of eye allergies you have, taking the appropriate steps to manage your condition and avoid triggers that can worsen your symptoms is important. Be sure to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and wearing sunglasses outdoors. You can reduce the severity of your eye allergies and maintain healthy eyes with proper care.
These are some of the signs of eye allergies:
- Itching, burning, or watery eyes
- Swollen eyelids
- Redness or a feeling of sand in the eye
Eye allergies can be caused by the following:
- Dust mites are microscopic organisms living in carpets, curtains, upholstered furniture, and bedding.
- Pollen: Trees, weeds, and grasses release pollen into the air that can cause eye allergies.
- Pet Dander: Pets such as cats and dogs carry tiny skin particles on their fur that can trigger eye allergies.
- Chemicals: Swimming pool, perfume, and smoke can all cause eye allergies.
Eye allergy treatment options
Once your doctor has determined the type of allergy you have, they may suggest one or more of these treatments to help alleviate the symptoms:
Antihistamines
When you suffer from an allergy, your body releases histamines as a defense mechanism. Antihistamines block the action of these chemicals, thus reducing your symptoms. They work by blocking certain receptors in the body that are responsible for the allergic response.
Decongestants
These medications work by constricting the blood vessels and reducing inflammation in the eyes, which helps to reduce redness and itchiness. They come in both oral and topical forms.
Allergy shots/immunotherapy
This treatment is suitable for people suffering from severe allergies, such as hay fever. Allergy shots work by introducing a small amount of the allergen into your body over time, which helps to desensitize your immune system and reduce symptoms.
Steroid eye drops
Steroid eye drops are used in severe allergy cases to reduce inflammation and redness. They are usually only used for a short time, as long-term use can cause side effects.
If you think you may be suffering from eye allergies, it is important to see your doctor at Bainbridge Eye Care for diagnosis and treatment.