Eye Allergy FAQs 

Eye allergies can be uncomfortable, but a natural response causes them. When an allergen tries to invade your body, your immune system releases histamine and antibodies to protect you. However, our immune system sometimes mistakes harmless substances for dangerous ones, which causes an allergic reaction.

Some of the most common symptoms include itching, dry eye, sensitivity to light, redness, swelling, and watery eyes. We recommend seeking treatment immediately if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.

Eye allergies can occur due to a variety of causes. Some of these causes include:

• Pollen
• Pet dander
• Mold
• Dust
• Smoke
• Perfumes

To prevent eye allergies, it’s essential to identify the triggers. For example, if you are allergic to pollen, stay indoors as much as possible when the pollen count is high. Also, if you are allergic to pet dander, we recommend having others groom your pet and regularly vacuum up any hair. Our eye care specialists can provide additional tips for avoiding triggers once identified.

Most people find it more comfortable to wear eyeglasses when suffering from eye allergies. If you choose to wear contacts, you must either dispose of them daily or thoroughly clean them, as allergens can build up on the lenses.

There are various treatments available for eye allergies. Our optometrists may suggest artificial tears, oral antihistamines, or decongestants. We can also prescribe prescription eye drops when over-the-counter treatments are less effective.