Red and Itchy Eyes? You May Have Eye Allergies

If your eyes are red and itchy, you may have allergic conjunctivitis, otherwise known as eye allergies. When you have eye allergies, this simply means something called an allergen has irritated your eyes.

What are the symptoms of eye allergies?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the most common symptoms include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Itchiness
• Burning
• Tears or watering
• Light sensitivity

What causes eye allergies?

Allergies can be caused by an irritant which comes into contact with your eyes. The irritation triggers a response from your immune system, which can lead to discomfort as your body tries to fight off the allergen.

How do you know if you have eye allergies?

You may be wondering whether you have allergic conjunctivitis or something more serious. Those with eye allergies usually also experience symptoms of nasal allergies, including a stuffy, itchy, or runny nose.

If you have eye allergies, the symptoms should clear up on their own once you are no longer in contact with the allergen. Common allergens include pollen, mold, dust, smoke, and pet dander.

How can you treat eye allergies?

The best way to treat allergic conjunctivitis is to avoid the allergens irritating your eyes. Here are some suggestions:

• Avoid using perfume, cosmetics, and body products with artificial fragrances.
• Use preservative-free eye drops.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against windblown pollen.
• Avoid furry pets and animals.
• Change your home and car air filters on a regular basis.
• Clean hard surfaces in the home with damp rags to trap allergens.
• Wash your bed sheets and towels on a frequent basis using hot water.
• Consider using a dehumidifier in extremely damp places of your home, such as the basement.
• Wash your hands after touching pets, plants, and other surfaces which contain common allergens.

If you can’t figure out which allergens are causing the allergic reaction, you may need to consult an allergist who can perform a test to identify the source of the issue.