Watery eyes, also known as epiphora, occur when there is an imbalance in the production and drainage of tears. While tears are essential for maintaining the health of the eyes and providing lubrication, excessive tearing can be uncomfortable and may indicate underlying issues. Here’s a closer look at what causes watery eyes, common symptoms, and potential treatments.

1. Understanding Tear Production

The eyes produce tears through several glands, primarily the lacrimal glands, located above the outer corner of each eye. Tears have three main components:

• Water: Provides hydration.
• Oils: Prevent evaporation.
• Mucus: Helps spread tears evenly over the surface of the eye.

Tears play a crucial role in keeping the eyes moist, protecting against infections, and washing away foreign particles.

2. Causes of Watery Eyes

Watery eyes can result from various factors, including:

• Allergies: Seasonal allergies or allergic reactions to dust, pet dander, or pollen can cause itchy, watery eyes as the body releases histamines in response to allergens.
• Irritants: Smoke, pollution, strong odors, or chemicals can irritate the eyes, leading to excessive tearing.
• Infections: Conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) can cause inflammation and increased tear production.
• Dry Eyes: Ironically, dry eyes can lead to watery eyes. When the eyes become dry, they may produce more tears to compensate, leading to an overproduction of watery tears.
• Blocked Tear Ducts: The tear ducts drain tears from the surface of the eye into the nose. A blockage can prevent proper drainage, causing tears to accumulate and spill over.
• Eye Conditions: Certain conditions, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), corneal abrasions, or pterygium (a growth on the conjunctiva), can cause watery eyes.
• Aging: As people age, the tear production process may become less efficient, sometimes leading to watery eyes or dry eyes.
• Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, can cause dryness, prompting the eyes to produce more tears to compensate.

3. Common Symptoms of Watery Eyes

In addition to excessive tearing, watery eyes may be accompanied by other symptoms, including:

• Itching or Burning: Often due to allergies or irritants.
• Redness: Caused by inflammation or irritation.
• Swelling: Around the eyes or eyelids.
• Blurry Vision: Due to tears pooling in front of the eye.

4. When to See a Doctor

While occasional watery eyes may not be a cause for concern, it’s essential to consult an eye care professional if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen over time.
• You experience significant pain or discomfort in your eyes.
• There is a change in vision.
• You notice any discharge or crusting around your eyes.

5. Treatment Options for Watery Eyes

The treatment for watery eyes depends on the underlying cause:

• Allergies: Antihistamines or allergy eye drops can help reduce symptoms.
• Irritation: Avoiding irritants and using lubricating eye drops can provide relief.
• Infections: Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed for bacterial conjunctivitis.
• Dry Eyes: Artificial tears and moisture chamber goggles can help alleviate symptoms.
• Blocked Tear Ducts: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to unblock the ducts.

6. Home Remedies and Prevention

• Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress over the eyes can help reduce irritation and swelling.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water can help maintain tear production and overall eye health.
• Limit Screen Time: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away to reduce eye strain.
• Use Air Filters: Keeping air clean with HEPA filters can reduce exposure to allergens and irritants.

Conclusion

Watery eyes can be a nuisance, but understanding the potential causes and symptoms can help you address the issue effectively. If excessive tearing persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s important to consult an eye care professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Taking steps to protect your eyes from irritants and maintaining overall eye health can also go a long way in preventing watery eyes in the future.

Itchy eyes are a common and frustrating problem that can make daily activities uncomfortable and irritating. Whether it’s a persistent tickle or an overwhelming urge to rub your eyes, understanding the causes of itchy eyes and how to treat them can help you find relief. Let’s dive into what might be causing your itchy eyes and the best ways to soothe them.

Common Causes of Itchy Eyes

1. Allergies:

   • Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever): Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is a common trigger for itchy eyes during certain times of the year. This type of allergic reaction is often accompanied by sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy skin.
   • Perennial Allergies: These are year-round allergies caused by indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mold. If your eyes are itchy no matter the season, indoor allergens might be to blame.
   • Contact Allergies: Sometimes, products like cosmetics, eye drops, or contact lens solutions can cause an allergic reaction, leading to itchy, red, and swollen eyes.

2. Dry Eyes:

   • Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to keep your eyes moist and comfortable. This can lead to a burning, gritty sensation, along with itching.
   • Environmental factors like wind, smoke, or air conditioning can exacerbate dry eyes, making them more likely to feel itchy.

3. Infections:

   • Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This infection can be viral, bacterial, or allergic in nature and often causes red, itchy eyes. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious, so it’s important to see a doctor for proper treatment.
   • Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids, often caused by bacteria or dandruff-like flakes at the base of your eyelashes, can lead to persistent itching and discomfort.

4. Contact Lens Issues:

   • Wearing contact lenses for too long or not cleaning them properly can irritate your eyes, leading to itching. Sometimes, the material of the contact lenses themselves can cause an allergic reaction or sensitivity.

5. Eye Strain:

   • Prolonged screen time or focusing on a task for too long can cause digital eye strain, leading to dryness and itchiness. When you don’t blink enough, your eyes can dry out, causing discomfort.

How to Treat Itchy Eyes

1. Identify and Avoid Triggers:

   • If you suspect allergies are causing your itchy eyes, try to avoid known triggers. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers indoors, and wash your hands frequently if you’ve been around pets.

2. Use Over-the-Counter (OTC) Eye Drops:

   • Artificial Tears: These can help soothe dry eyes and wash away irritants.
   • Antihistamine Eye Drops: These are specifically designed to relieve itching caused by allergies.
   • Decongestant Eye Drops: These reduce redness but should only be used short-term to avoid rebound effects.

3. Apply a Cold Compress:

   • Placing a cold, damp washcloth over your closed eyes can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from itching.

4. Practice Good Eye Hygiene:

   • If blepharitis or other eyelid issues are causing your itchy eyes, make sure to clean your eyelids gently with a warm cloth and mild soap. This can help remove debris and reduce inflammation.

5. Limit Screen Time and Take Breaks:

   • Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away to help reduce eye strain.

6. Consult a Doctor:

   • If your itchy eyes persist or are accompanied by severe pain, swelling, or discharge, it’s important to see an eye care professional. They can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Preventing Itchy Eyes

1. Keep Your Environment Clean:

   • Regularly dust and vacuum your home to reduce allergens like dust mites and pet dander. Consider using allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses.

2. Stay Hydrated:

   • Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated, which can help maintain tear production and reduce dry eye symptoms.

3. Protect Your Eyes:

   • Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from wind, dust, and pollen. If you wear contact lenses, follow proper hygiene and wear them for the recommended amount of time.

Conclusion

Itchy eyes can be more than just a minor annoyance—they can significantly impact your daily life. By understanding the potential causes and taking steps to treat and prevent itchy eyes, you can find relief and maintain comfortable, healthy eyes. If your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to ensure there isn’t a more serious underlying issue.

As wildfires continue to ravage landscapes worldwide, the far-reaching consequences extend beyond environmental damage to encompass human health, including eye health. Exploring the intricate relationship between wildfire smoke and its effects on eye health and overall well-being provides crucial insights for individuals and communities alike. Let’s delve into this complex issue and analyze the multifaceted impact of wildfire smoke.

The Anatomy of Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke is a complex mixture of gases, fine particles, and other toxic compounds generated from the combustion of vegetation and organic matter. These airborne pollutants can travel vast distances, infiltrating urban and rural areas alike and posing significant health risks to exposed populations.

Eye Health Risks

Irritation and Redness

Exposure to smoke from wildfires can cause eye irritation and redness. The fine particulate matter and chemical irritants present in the smoke can lead to dryness, itching, burning sensations, and a gritty feeling in the eyes. This discomfort may persist as long as the exposure to the smoke continues.

Conjunctivitis

Smoke from wildfires can also trigger conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye.” Conjunctivitis is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. Symptoms include redness, excessive tearing, discharge, and swollen eyelids. Individuals with pre-existing eye conditions, such as dry eye syndrome, may experience more severe symptoms.

Increased Risk of Eye Infections

Smoke inhalation weakens the body’s natural defense mechanisms, making individuals more susceptible to eye infections. The irritants present in the smoke can compromise the protective barrier of the eyes, allowing bacteria and viruses to enter more easily. This can lead to the development of bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, further exacerbating eye discomfort and potentially requiring medical treatment.

Systemic Health Implications

1. Respiratory Effects: Inhalation of wildfire smoke can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, shortness of breath, and exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2. Cardiovascular Risks: Wildfire smoke exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, attributed to the inflammatory response and systemic effects of air pollutants.
3. Mental Health Impact: The psychological toll of wildfires, compounded by concerns about health, safety, and property loss, can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among affected individuals and communities.

Vulnerable Populations

Certain groups may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of wildfire smoke, including:

• Children: Developing respiratory and immune systems make children more vulnerable to the respiratory and systemic effects of smoke exposure.
• Elderly Individuals: Age-related decline in respiratory and cardiovascular function increases the risk of health complications from smoke inhalation.
• Individuals with Pre-existing Conditions: Those with asthma, COPD, cardiovascular disease, or other chronic health conditions may experience exacerbated symptoms and complications.

Mitigation and Prevention Strategies

1. Indoor Air Quality Measures: Close windows and doors to prevent smoke infiltration, use air purifiers with HEPA filters, and maintain indoor air quality to reduce exposure.
2. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear protective eyewear and masks rated for particulate matter filtration when outdoors in smoky conditions.
3. Stay Informed: Monitor air quality indices and wildfire updates from local authorities and take appropriate precautions to minimize exposure during periods of high smoke concentration.

Conclusion

The inhalation of smoke from wildfires not only poses significant risks to respiratory and cardiovascular health but also has detrimental effects on eye health. Understanding the potential hazards and taking appropriate measures to protect oneself is crucial. By staying informed, creating a clean indoor environment, using protective eyewear, and seeking medical advice when necessary, we can minimize the adverse effects of wildfire smoke on eye health and overall well-being.

Eye allergies, though not life-threatening, can significantly impact quality of life, causing discomfort and interfering with daily activities. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of eye allergies and learning effective management strategies, individuals can alleviate symptoms and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision. Let’s delve into the world of eye allergies and explore practical guidance for relief.

What Are Eye Allergies?

Eye allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, are a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. These allergies occur when the eyes come into contact with allergens, triggering an immune response that leads to inflammation and discomfort. While eye allergies are not usually serious, they can be quite bothersome and impact daily activities, making it essential to learn about their causes, symptoms, prevention, and management. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into various aspects of eye allergies, empowering you to better understand and address this condition effectively. Let’s explore everything you need to know about eye allergies and how to manage them for better eye health.

Identifying Common Triggers

1. Pollen: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is a common allergen that can exacerbate eye allergies, especially during peak allergy seasons.
2. Pet Dander: Proteins found in pet dander, saliva, and urine can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to itchy, watery eyes.
3. Dust Mites: Dust mites thrive in household environments, particularly in bedding, upholstery, and carpets. Exposure to dust mite allergens can provoke eye allergy symptoms.
4. Mold Spores: Mold spores, prevalent in damp or humid environments, can trigger allergic conjunctivitis when inhaled or come into contact with the eyes.

Managing Eye Allergy Symptoms

1. Avoidance Strategies: Minimize exposure to known allergens by keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons, using air purifiers, and regularly cleaning and vacuuming indoor spaces.
2. Eye Protection: Wear wraparound sunglasses or glasses to shield the eyes from airborne allergens and reduce irritation.
3. Cool Compresses: Applying cool compresses to the eyes can help alleviate itching, swelling, and redness associated with eye allergies.
4. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tear drops can provide temporary relief from dryness and irritation caused by eye allergies.
5. Antihistamine Eye Drops: Non-prescription antihistamine eye drops can effectively relieve itching and redness associated with allergic conjunctivitis. However, consult with an eye care professional before prolonged use.
6. Prescription Medications: For severe or persistent eye allergy symptoms, prescription-strength antihistamine, mast cell stabilizer, or corticosteroid eye drops may be recommended by an eye care specialist.

Lifestyle Tips for Eye Allergies

Clean Hands and Face

Frequently washing your hands and face can help reduce allergens that may come into contact with your eyes. Be mindful of touching your eyes, as this can transfer allergens from your hands to your eyes, leading to irritation. Using fragrance-free soap and hypoallergenic facial cleansers is advisable for individuals with sensitive skin and eye allergies.

Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

Rubbing your eyes can exacerbate allergy symptoms and may lead to further irritation or infection. If you need to soothe itching, use a clean tissue to gently dab your eyes instead. This gentle approach can help alleviate discomfort without aggravating your eye allergies. It is also crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes after coming into contact with potential allergens to prevent the spread of irritants to your eyes.

Allergy-Proof Your Bedroom

Since you spend several hours in your bedroom, it’s essential to make it allergy-friendly. Regularly dusting and vacuuming, and washing your bedding in hot water can eliminate allergens, such as dust mites and pet dander, from your sleeping environment. Investing in a high-quality air purifier can also help improve indoor air quality and reduce the concentration of allergens in your bedroom. Choosing hypoallergenic bedding and pillow covers can further reduce allergen exposure during sleep.

When to Seek Professional Care

If symptoms persist despite self-care measures or significantly interfere with daily activities, it’s essential to seek evaluation by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. These eye care professionals can assess the severity of your eye allergies, recommend appropriate treatment options, and rule out other potential eye conditions.

Conclusion

By understanding the triggers and symptoms of eye allergies and implementing effective management strategies, individuals can minimize discomfort and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision. Remember, proactive care and regular eye examinations are essential for maintaining optimal eye health and managing eye allergies effectively. With the right approach, relief from eye allergy symptoms is within reach, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the world around you.

Do you still look tired after a full night of sleep? Do you hate breaking out the mascara when your eyes look swollen? “Why are my eyes puffy?” is a question you’re probably asking yourself.

Read on to learn more about some causes of puffy eyes and what you can do about the problem.

What Causes Puffy Eyes?

Puffy eyes have many different root causes. If you notice swelling around your eye area, it usually means you have fluid build-up, called periorbital edema. These are some possible causes.

• Fatigue – Puffy, swollen eyes make you look tired – and with good reason. A common cause of puffy eyes is a lack of sleep.
• Blockage – Your eyes may swell because lymph fluid or blood vessels get blocked and fluid can’t drain out. Something might be blocking the ducts around your eye socket. Talk to a doctor about methods of lymphatic drainage.
• Dry Eyes – When your eyes are dry, the tissue gets irritated and swells. A dry eye might mean your home is too hot, or that you’re not blinking enough.
• Salty Food – A diet high in sodium can lead to water retention. Some of this fluid can collect under your eyes.
• Health Issues – Some health conditions can make your eyes swell up. If the swelling doesn’t go away within 48 hours, see your eye doctor.

Can an Allergic Reaction Cause Puffy Eyes?

Bad enough that allergies can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and trouble breathing. But allergic irritation can also make your eyes swell, too. Puffy eyes might also be one of the early symptoms of an allergic reaction.

• Allergy symptoms in your eyes include puffiness that’s worst in the morning, itching or burning, and tearing. Also, your blood vessels might expand, which makes your eyes look bloodshot.
• If the swelling is limited to your eye area, you might have seasonal pollen allergies. If your entire face swells, you are likely having an allergic reaction. And swelling in just one eye, or swelling of your eyelid skin, could be from an insect bite.
• Puffy eyes from seasonal allergies are annoying. Protect your eyes from allergens by staying inside when pollen counts are high. If you notice swelling, see your doctor.

If your symptoms are severe, a doctor can recommend a good allergy treatment.

If you’re allergy-prone, eyelid swelling and puffiness may be a regular occurrence.

But you can help reduce puffy eyes by keeping your allergies under control with the help of your doctor.

Note: An allergic reaction might be a medical emergency. If you experience rapid swelling of the eyes or any other part of your body, seek medical treatment.

What Causes Dark Circles Under Your Eyes?

Dark circles and puffy eyes often go together. They’re both unsightly and they both make you look exhausted – even when you aren’t! Under eye dark circles or puffy “bags,” have many causes:

• The skin around your eyes is thinner than other skin. That means your blood vessels are more visible. When you’re tired, dark circles are more visible, too.
• Some people are born with naturally dark circles and darker pigmentation under the eyes.
• Swelling around your eyes can also cause dark circles. That’s because the swelling makes blood pool under your eyes.

Dark circles and puffy eyes share some causes, like allergies and aging. So, now the question becomes…

What are Some Effective Home Remedies for Puffy Eyelids?

Want to improve the appearance of unsightly puffy, swollen eyelids? Certain home remedies might help. Common household items can soothe the irritated blood vessels and connective tissues around your eyes.

Some home remedies that help puffy eyes are also effective with dark circles. A full night of sleep may be all you need to help reduce symptoms.

Caffeinated eye cream may help puffy eyes. An eye doctor or dermatologist may help you find a treatment cream that works for you.

Tea bags are a natural source of caffeine for your eyes. This chemical shrinks blood vessels to help reduce swelling. Try putting cool tea bags directly on your puffy eyes for a few minutes.

An eye massage can provide relief for irritated, puffy eyes. Hold a warm water compress to your eye for five minutes. Then gently massage both the upper eyelid and lower eyelid with clean fingers.

Cucumbers on the eyes aren’t just for show at a fancy spa. Cucumber slices can help reduce swelling in your eyes. They’re also high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help boost tired skin.

Be careful when applying anything to your eye area. Products that are healthy and soothing for your face and eyelid skin might be irritating if they get in your eyes. Focus on keeping the area around the eye healthy, instead.

NOTE: Some people believe hemorrhoid cream can reduce puffiness because it will constrict blood vessels. But it can also cause irritation and might make the puffiness worse. Stick with other tried-and-true home remedies, and keep hemorrhoid cream off of your face.

Preventing Puffy Eyes

They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That’s true when it comes to puffy eyes, too. You can practice good eye and skin care to help keep puffy eyes from appearing in the first place.

Sleep More

Sometimes, relief from puffy eyes is as simple as getting a good night’s sleep. To optimize your sleeping conditions, make sure your room is dark and quiet, and try not to drink caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime.

Reduce Salt

Sodium can make your body retain water and other fluid, which can lead to swelling in the tissues around your eyes.

To cut back on salt, cook your own meals. The average American gets 70% of their salt intake from processed food. Low-salt diets have other benefits, like helping you maintain healthy blood pressure.

Cool Off

Turn down the heat, which can cause dry eyes. And dry eyes can become puffy. If you make your home cooler, you’re less likely to wake up with swollen eyes.

Also, drink plenty of cold water throughout your day. Dehydration can cause your body to retain water – including under your eyes.

With a few small lifestyle changes, you may be able to cut back on your number of puffy eye days! Sleep, water, and a healthy diet will work wonders for your health.

Getting Rid of Puff

Puffy, swollen eyes are bound to happen from time to time. That doesn’t mean you have to accept them. If you’re concerned about puffy eyes and you’re experiencing the problem regularly, it’s time to talk to your doctor.

Sources:

1. Cues of Fatigue: Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Facial Appearance
2. Eyelid Edema
3. What Causes Puffy Eyes? By Stacey Feintuch,  01/25/2017
4. Bags Under the Eyes By: Kierstan Boyd, Nov. 29, 2018
5. Hoagland Sign: An early manifestation of acute infectious mononucleosis – A case report
6. Puffy Eyes: What Causes Them and What To Do About It, April 1, 2019
7. Allergic conjunctivitis
8. Eye Swelling
9. EYE ALLERGY
10. When To See An Allergist
11. Infraorbital dark circles: A review of the pathogenesis, evaluation and treatment

No matter where you live, allergens and their effects on your eyes are nothing to sneeze at. Researchers at the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America say as many as 30 percent of adults and 40 percent of children suffer from some type of allergies.

So what’s an itchy-eye sufferer to do? Since we can’t persuade Mother Nature to give it a rest with the allergens, here are some tips to help protect your eyes, so you can stop and actually see the roses, not just smell them.

Here are 15 tips on how to get relief from Eye Allergies:

1. Get an early start. See your eye doctor before allergy season begins to learn how to reduce your sensitivity to allergens.
2. Wash your face. Washing your face is one of the first things you should do to combat itchy, swollen eyes. It can help wash away the allergens sticking to your skin and eyelashes.
3. Apply a cold compress. Cold compresses around the eyes can be helpful with itching and swelling. Soak a towel or washcloth in cold water or refrigerate a damp cloth or eye pillow. Then lie down with the compress across your eyes to let the coolness reduce swelling.
4. Rinse out the eyes. Rinse out the eyes if you can with a little bit of water, and that’s usually helpful. That will loosen the allergens from the inside of your eyes and help to flush them out.
5. Don’t rub your eyes if they itch! Eye rubbing releases more histamine and makes your allergy symptoms worse.
6. Use plenty of artificial tears to wash airborne allergens from your eyes. Ask your eye doctor which brands are best for you.
7. Cut down your contact lens wear or switch to daily disposable lenses to reduce the build-up of allergens on your lenses.
8. Shower before bedtime and gently clean your eyelids to remove any pollen that could cause irritation while you sleep.
9. Consider purchasing an air purifier for your home, and purchase an allergen-trapping filter for your heating/cooling system.
10. Pay attention to pollen reports. Your local weather channel or weather-related web site regularly gives pollen counts for your area. When the counts are high, limit how much time you spend outdoors if you can.
11. Have someone else mow your grass when possible.
12. Avoid wooded areas.
13. Close doors and windows, and use air conditioning during warmer months. Know that allergens can be circulated through the air conditioning’s filter, though. If you have bad reactions to pollens, the use of air conditioning may not be wise if your flare-ups are severe.
14. Try to avoid or limit your exposure to the primary causes of your eye allergies. In the spring and summer, pollen from trees and grasses are the usual suspects. Ragweed pollen is the biggest culprit in late summer and fall. Mold, dust mites and pet dander are common indoor allergens during winter.
15. Protect your eyes from airborne allergens outdoors by wearing wraparound-style sunglasses.

          These ideas are often just the first step. For many people, the next is a talk with the doctor about allergy drugs to help relieve symptoms. Your doctor can recommend the correct meds to help prevent or treat that irritation or itchiness.

Sources:

How to Protect Your Eyes During Allergy Season, April 21, 2017

Allergy eyedrops are liquid medicines used to treat symptoms of eye allergies. Eye allergy symptoms include:

• A burning feeling in your eye
• Feeling like something is in the eye
• Itchy eyes
• Red (bloodshot) eyes
• Swollen eyelid
• Tearing

An eye allergy can be triggered by the same things that cause hay fever, such as:

• Pollen
• Dust
• Pet dander

Certain medications or contact lenses can also be triggers.

Types of Allergy Eyedrops

Your doctor may first suggest you take these steps:

• Use artificial tears.
• Place a cold cloth on the eyes.
• Avoid your allergy triggers.

Which type of allergy eyedrop you use depends on:

• The cause of your allergy
• Your symptoms
• How much the symptoms affect your daily activities

If you really want to get rid of the eye related symptoms, one of the best options is to use eye drops for allergies that have an antihistamine ingredient to deal with the overload of histamine release that your body is giving you. A lot of seasonal allergies will come with a lot of Eye Allergy Symptoms that feel like a head cold: watery eyes, congestion, and a runny nose.

The reason these Eye Allergies Symptoms often appear together is that they’re both caused by the same type of allergen. An Eye Allergy is usually called allergic conjunctivitis, which basically means that the conjunctiva, a thin layer of skin on the eye, is reacting to an airborne irritant.

The inner lining of your nose has the exact same type of skin layer, and as such they both tend to react at the same time. Most people have a common pollen allergy. This is when the pollen released from flowers Eye Allergies Causes an allergic reaction.

Certain times of year, such as late spring, are full of flower pollen, which is when most people experience symptoms. Other allergens crop up at different times of year. Weed pollen, for example, is usually around more in the early autumn months.

If you’re allergic to pet dander or something that doesn’t cycle throughout the year, there’s a chance that you could be afflicted all year long. There are a lot of indoor allergens that a lot of people aren’t aware of, and as a result they just think they happen to get sick a lot. A lot of people have allergies to mold and mildew, which can grow in some corner of your house without you even knowing it’s there.

This can then lead to a chronic allergic response where you always feel at least some symptoms of your Eye Allergies.

The first step is of course to remove all potential allergens from your house, and in the meantime you can use eye drops for allergies to alleviate your symptoms a bit. Chronic allergic reactions have the potential to damage your eyes, so getting rid of everything that might be causing your allergies to flare up is the best way to Protect Your Eyesight.

Side Effects and Risks

As with any medicine, you should always follow the recommended instructions on the label. You shouldn’t use over-the-counter eyedrops for more than 2 to 3 days. If you use them for longer than that, it can make matters worse.

If you have an eye infection or glaucoma, you shouldn’t use eyedrops. Talk to your doctor about other options.

Some eyedrops may sting or burn when you place them in your eyes. It can help to store them in your fridge.

You can’t use many eyedrops while you wear contact lenses. Your doctor may tell you to remove your lenses before you use the drops and wait at least 10 minutes before you put them back in. Or you may not be able to wear contact lenses at all during treatment with eyedrops.

 Your doctor might prescribe some prescription eye drops for allergies, which will usually have either an antihistamine or an anti-inflammatory, especially if you’ve been experiencing some swelling along with your other symptoms. Remember that there are ways to fight allergies.

Sources:

Eye Drops For Allergies Information

It seems like every season is allergy season. In the spring, it’s the tree and flower pollen. Summer adds grass pollen. In the fall, it’s weed pollen. People who have allergies have symptoms such as sneezing, sniffling, and nasal congestion, but allergies can affect the eyes, too. They can make your eyes red, itchy, burning, and watery, and cause swollen eyelids.

Did you know that pollen is the biggest trigger of spring allergies? When your body comes in contact with pollen, your immune system mistakenly sees it as a harmful substance. In an attempt to protect your body, it starts a chain reaction that prompts some of the body’s cells to release histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream. And it’s the histamine that leads to the itchy eyes, watery eyes, red eyes, and swollen eyelids (also known as allergic conjunctivitis) that leave us searching for relief.

Just because your eyes aren’t happy with the pollen in the air, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the new season.

Below are tips and tricks for protecting your eyes from dreaded spring allergies.

1. Get an early start. See your eye doctor before allergy season begins to learn how to reduce your sensitivity to allergens.
2. Always wash hands and face after coming in from outdoors to remove pollen. Change your clothes immediately after outdoor activities, and have your children change their clothes when they come in from playing outside.
3. Try to avoid or limit your exposure to the primary causes of your eye allergies.In the spring and summer, pollen from trees and grasses are the usual suspects. Ragweed pollen is the biggest culprit in late summer and fall. Mold, dust mites and pet dander are common indoor allergens during winter.
4. Protect your eyes from airborne allergens outdoors by wearing wraparound-style sunglasses.
5. Don’t rub your eyes if they itch! Eye rubbing releases more histamine and makes your allergy symptoms worse.
6. Use plenty of artificial tears to wash airborne allergens from your eyes. Ask your eye doctor which brands are best for you.
7. Cut down your contact lens wear or switch to daily disposable lenses to reduce the build-up of allergens on your lenses.
8. Shower before bedtime and gently clean your eyelids to remove any pollen that could cause irritation while you sleep.
9. Consider purchasing an air purifier for your home, and purchase an allergen-trapping filter for your heating/cooling system.
10. Wear sunglasses outside to protect the surface of your eyes from direct contact with allergens. Most sunglasses have larger lenses than everyday eyeglasses and, therefore, provide more protection.

If your symptoms do not improve, or they seem to get worse, oral antihistamines or other systemic allergy medication may also help contain your allergies. See your primary care doctor to find out if allergy medication is right for you.

Sources:

1. Keep Your Eyes Comfortable During the Cold Winter Months, December 11, 2018
2. Hello Allergy Season: How To Protect Your Eyes