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What are ocular allergies?

Common things in the environment such as dust or pollen irritate some peoples' eyes. These substances are called "allergens," and they can cause symptoms such as itching and swelling in the eyes. This reaction is usually centered in a part of the eye called the conjunctiva, which becomes inflamed when triggered by a substance that a person is especially sensitive to. An ocular allergy can happen suddenly or some time after you come in contact with the allergen.

The most common form of ocular allergy is seasonal conjunctivitis. When a susceptible person is exposed to allergens from the environment, such as pollens in the fall and spring, they experience seasonal conjunctivitis. However, some people suffer year round from perennial allergies caused by other substances such as molds, house dust mites, animals and insects.

Are there any other types of eye allergies besides seasonal and perennial?

Yes, though these severe forms of ocular allergy are very rare. Vernal keratoconjunctivitis usually occurs in adolescent boys who suffer from eczema, asthma, or sinus allergies. Atopic keratoconjunctivitis usually occurs in adults who are highly sensitive to allergens associated with asthma, rhinitis, skin rashes, or food allergies. Contact lens associated papillary conjunctivitis appears to be an allergic reaction to contact lenses or their solutions. Contact ocular allergy or toxic keratoconjunctivitis can result from a reaction to medications used in the eye, such as antibiotics and antivirals.

What happens when allergens affect the eyes?

When your eyes come in contact with something your body considers foreign-such as pollen, dust, or pet dander-special cells in your eyes go on alert. These cells then release different kinds of chemical substances that can cause your eye allergy symptoms. This does not happen in all individuals, but only those who have been `sensitized' to these specific foreign substances.

Can cigarette smoke cause eye allergies

Although cigarette smoke, perfume and diesel exhaust may cause your eyes to become inflamed and irritated, they do not trigger an allergic response. But they can make your allergy symptoms worse.

How do I know if I have eye allergies?

Itching is the symptom that allergy sufferers complain about most. Other common reactions are redness, and watery eyes. You may also have swelling, puffiness, and/or throbbing. Some people find that their allergies make their eyes very sensitive to light. However, they only way to be certain that you are having an allergic response instead of some other type of eye problem is to visit your eye care professional for a definitive diagnosis.

How can I prevent eye allergies?

The best way to prevent eye allergies is to avoid the source of the allergen. Once you and your health care professional identify which substances are triggering your allergies, you can take steps to reduce contact with them.

The nonprescription medicines I am buying are not helping enough. What else can I do?

Many new therapies are now available to help relieve the symptoms of eye allergies, and even to prevent them. Discuss the options with your eye care professional, who can tell you which medication is best for you.

What is the most common treatment for eye allergies?

An effective allergy medication specifically aimed at halting ongoing symptoms and preventing future symptoms of allergy is best. Today, this would be the dual-action agents (antihistamine/mast cell stabilizers).

Topical antihistamines, usually in combination with decongestants are one treatment option. They act quickly and effectively to block allergen receptors. However, they may need to be used up to four times a day.

Do allergy shots help eye allergies?

Allergy shots, or immunotherapy are sometimes used when other therapies do not help control your symptoms. However, they can take months to work and so are not typically the first choice for treatment.