Although most allergies are related to coughing, sneezing and runny nose, allergies can also affect the eyes. Ocular allergy, also known as ocular allergic or allergic conjunctivitis, is an immune response to environmental stimuli.
They may cause blurring and no real long-term vision problems, eye infections and other diseases may have similar symptoms of eye allergies, and if the problem persists, you should contact a medical professional. The following are the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments of ocular allergies.
1. Type of eye allergy
The two main types of eye allergy are seasonal and perennial. Seasonal allergies are more common than perennial allergies. They occur at certain times of the year, such as early spring and early fall, caused by allergens in the air, such as pollen from trees, weeds and grasses, and mold.
Allergies all year round. They are caused by dander, animal or pet dander and bedding feathers. The easiest way to determine which type of allergy is the most is to be aware of the symptoms.
2. The process of allergic reactions
Eye allergies are caused by the immune system’s reaction to irritants or allergens in the environment and usually do not cause problems for others.
When allergens or irritants come into contact with mast cells in the eye, an allergic reaction occurs that causes the release of histamine and other substances, causing leakage of tiny blood vessels in the eye. This can cause the eyes to become red, wet and itchy.
3. Reason
Eye allergies are caused by allergens in the air, including inside and outside the home. These may include mold, smoke, dust, pollen from grass, grass, and trees, and pet debris. Other reasons may include reactions to perfumes, drugs, cosmetics or body products.
According to a study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, some people may be allergic to chemicals in eye drops, even those that are not in contact with the eyes, such as food or insect bites.
4. Symptoms
Symptoms of eye allergies include sensitivity to light, temporary blurring, burning or tearing of the eyes, redness or itching of the eyes. Symptoms are usually not dangerous and may disappear on their own or disappear as soon as the stimulus subsides.
If the symptoms of eye allergies are accompanied by nasal allergies such as nasal congestion or sneezing, other symptoms may occur. These symptoms include a headache, sore throat, cough, swelling of the eyelids, difficulty swallowing, and itching of the throat.
5. Diagnosis
The allergy doctor can determine if there is an allergy or if there is a more serious cause of eye disease. Many symptoms of eye allergy can be treated at home if symptoms persist or are severe enough to affect vision, an allergy specialist can perform several tests to make a correct diagnosis.
Testing typically involves performing an eye examination with a microscope to determine a swollen blood vessel under the surface of the eye. Allergists can also gently scrape off the conjunctiva to see if a particular type of white blood cell is found.
6. Treatment
Treatments for ocular allergies include avoiding allergens and using eye drops or medications to reduce symptoms. Eye drops, such as artificial tears, can temporarily reduce allergies by washing allergens or irritants in the eye.
Eye drops can also increase the dryness of the eyes and provide relief. These drugs are not prescribed and can be used up to six times a day. Look for a preservative-free brand to prevent further irritation.
7. Drugs
There are several drugs that can treat eye allergies. Hemostatic agents can be used to reduce redness and swelling of the eyes. They can be used as eye drops for over-the-counter medicines. Some can even act as antihistamines, which can help reduce itching.
Oral antihistamines can help relieve eye itching; however, it is known that they cause dry eyes. Eye drops containing both antihistamine and mast cell stabilizers are also useful. Corticosteroids are also used to treat chronic itching, swelling, and redness.
8. Prevention
The best way to prevent eye allergies is to avoid allergies. Stay indoors when the pollen content is high in the morning and evening. Run the air conditioner and close the window. Avoid window sashes because they attract mold and pollen.
You can wear allergies by wearing glasses and sunglasses outdoors. Always wash the bedding and use allergen-free pillowcases to reduce exposure to dust mites. Use a damp mop to clean the floor instead of cleaning it and keep the humidity below 50 percent.
9. Immunotherapy injection
People with eye allergies can seek relief through immunotherapy or allergy injections if they are unable to control their symptoms through prevention, eye drops or other medications. Immunotherapy vaccines work similarly to vaccines because they contain small amounts of allergens.
As the dose increases, the immune system learns how to immunize allergens until they no longer cause symptoms after exposure. Immunotherapy injections are not suitable for people with weakened immune systems.
10. Natural remedies
Natural treatments for eye allergies can be treated at home without the need for over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Turmeric has been shown to be an anti-congestant for allergy symptoms.
Due to the nature of its natural antihistamines and no side effects of sleep, the use of butterfly grass as a supplement has a good record in reducing pollen allergy. Fish oil has also been shown to reduce allergic reactions because it reduces the levels of leukotrienes, a compound associated with allergic reactions.
