What Causes Eye Allergies?

Triggers for eye allergies

Eye allergies can also be called allergic conjunctivitis and are just like any other allergic reaction. These allergies are caused by a misfiring of the immune system, which is your body’s defense mechanism. When you suffer from allergies, your body is reacting to things that aren’t necessarily harmful and releases histamine. Histamine is a chemical that causes inflammation and swelling. Blood vessels then get teary, itchy, and red.

Pollen from Weeds, Trees, and Grasses: Pollen is one of the most common causes of seasonal allergies.

Pet Dander, Dust, or Other Indoor Allergens: If you are allergic to these allergens, these are going to last year-round if you are exposed to them.

Perfume, Makeup, and Other Chemicals: These can trigger eye allergies that are called contact conjunctivitis.

Allergy to Contact Lenses: If you are allergic to contact lenses, it causes bumps on the inside of your eyelid and will make your eyes red and sensitive.

Symptoms to pay attention to in your eyes

If you know what causes your eye allergies, then you can pay attention to symptoms. You may notice you have symptoms as soon as you are in contact with the allergen or your symptoms may not appear. Symptoms include itchiness, swollen eyelids, burning, pain or soreness, sensitivity to light, and irritated red eyes.

When to seek emergency eye care

Eye allergies and seasonal allergies have different treatments and aren’t something you need to seek emergency eye care for. Try different eye drops and antihistamine pills to relieve your symptoms to see which ones work best for you and your type of allergy.

Seek emergency care from your eye doctor if you develop vision loss or severe eye pain.

Call G&D Today!

We can help you with eye allergies and the different treatment options available to you. Make an appointment at G&D Optometry.