Eye Allergies: Cause, Prevention And Treatment

Health & Medical Blog

There are two types of eye allergies: perennial and seasonal. If you – or someone you care about – suffers from eye allergies, it is normal to want to know more about what causes them, how you can treat them, and how to prevent them.

Causes of Eye Allergies

Perennial allergies can affect people all year round and are usually linked to indoor allergens. They could be from dust mites, pet hairs, or even pests and mold in the home.

Seasonal allergies are just as they sound. They affect people during certain seasons, usually the spring and fall. Hayfever is one of the most common types of seasonal allergies that sufferers deal with.

When the allergens land on the eye, the immune system attacks and this leads to the symptoms, including irritation, watery discharge, and a burning sensation. The allergies may not just affect the eyes, and other symptoms include a runny/blocked nose and sneezing.

Treatments for Eye Allergies

Both types of allergies will have similar treatment plans. The eyes water and become infected due to irritants and an increase of histamines in the body. Doctors regularly prescribe anti-histamines to counter these, and you can get this medication over the counter in small doses.

It is also possible to use cold compresses or natural remedies like cucumbers over the eyes. These treatments don't help to get rid of the allergies, but will help to soothe the symptoms.

Preventing Allergies Causing a Problem in the Future

Fortunately, there are also steps you can take to prevent allergens from getting into your eyes and causing problems in the first place.

If your allergies are perennial, you can start by making sure there is no dust, pet hair, or other allergen in your home. Clean regularly and invest in "mite-proof" pillows. You should also make sure you replace your pillows every six to 36 months, depending on the type of pillow you have. Consider a dehumidifier in your bathroom and bedroom to help reduce allergens and mold growth. Once a week, wash your bed linen on a high heat to get rid of all the mites.

For seasonal allergies, change the time of day you go outside. Between mid-morning and early evening the allergens are more likely to be around. You should also keep your windows closed, so the allergens can't get into the house.

It's not easy, but you can reduce your eye allergy symptoms. Make sure you have some anti-histamines to hand when it comes to treatment to help. For more information, contact a clinic such as Asthma and Allergy Clinic.

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2 September 2016

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