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EYE ALLERGIES

DEFINITION OF EYE ALLERGIES

Eye allergies, also known as Allergic Conjunctivitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens, leading to redness, itching, swelling, and watery eyes. Common triggers include dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, cosmetics, and air pollution.

RISK FACTORS OF EYE ALLERGIES

  • Environmental allergens
  • Pollution & Smoke
  • Cosmetics & Chemicals
  • Contact lenses
  • Weather changes

SYMPTOMS

  • Most prominent and classic symptom

  • Often intense and hard to resist scratching

  • May worsen in both eyes simultaneously

  • Rubbing the eyes typically makes it worse and can lead to further irritation

  • The whites of the eyes appear pink or red

  • Caused by dilated blood vessels in the conjunctiva due to inflammation

  • Often symmetrical in both eyes

    • Reflex tearing as the eyes try to flush out allergens

    • Despite the name "dry eyes," some people experience excessive tearing as a symptom

  • Eyelids may appear puffy, especially in the morning

  • Can be mild or significant depending on the severity of the reaction

  • Feels like something is in the eye

  • Often described as mild stinging or burning

  • Usually caused by inflammation or dryness associated with allergic response

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TREATMENT TYPES

  • Stay indoors during high pollen counts

  • Keep windows closed and use air filters or purifiers

  • Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes

  • Wash hands and face after outdoor exposure

  • Use hypoallergenic bedding and pillowcases

  • Clean fans, vents, and dust-prone areas regularly

  • Shower before bed during allergy season

      • Help flush out allergens

      • Relieve mild irritation, redness, and dryness

      • Available over the counter

      • Prefer preservative-free formulations for frequent use

      • Ketotifen (Zaditor, Alaway – OTC)

      • Olopatadine (Pataday, Pazeo – OTC or Rx)

      • Azelastine (Rx only)

      • Cromolyn sodium

      • Nedocromil

      • Lodoxamide

    • Olopatadine (Pataday)

    • Ketotifen fumarate

    • Bepotastine (Bepreve)

    • These are often the first choice for patients with regular seasonal allergies.

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FAQS

Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, occur when the eyes overreact to allergens like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or mold. This causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, leading to itching, redness, tearing, and swelling.

 

    • Itchy, red, or watery eyes

    • Puffy or swollen eyelids

    • Stringy or clear discharge

    • Grittiness or burning sensation

    • Blurry vision (temporary)

    • Both eyes usually affected at the same time

      • Seasonal allergens (like tree, grass, or weed pollen)

      • Indoor allergens (dust mites, pet dander, mold)

      • Contact lens solutions or eye drops with preservatives

      • Irritants like smoke, perfumes, or pollution

No. Eye allergies are not contagious. They are caused by your immune system reacting to allergens, not by viruses or bacteria.

Yes, many allergy eye drops are safe for daily use, especially preservative-free or once-daily formulas like Pataday. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid overuse of decongestant drops (e.g., “get the red out”) which can worsen redness over time.

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