Eye allergies can significantly affect your vision and make tasks like driving or reading challenging. At Eye Doctors of Arizona in Phoenix and Shea Park, AZ, we provide comprehensive eye exams that can help detect allergies and treatment to reduce your symptoms. You can learn more about what cause eye allergies and why treatment is important below:
What are Allergens?
Allergens refer to substances that can trigger an allergic response in people who may be sensitive to that particular substance. Allergens vary from person to person and some people may have multiple allergies. Some allergens that may cause eye allergies include:
- - Mold
- - Pollen
- - Dust
- - Pet Dander
- - Medications
- - Insect Bites
- - Perfume
- - Smoke
- - Foods, such as shellfish or peanut butter
Eye Allergy Symptoms
Eye allergies can cause a variety of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include:
Itchiness — the itchiness can vary from mild to intense
Watery eyes — this is the body’s natural way of flushing the allergens and reducing irritation
Red eyes — red eyes are typically caused by inflammation
Swelling — Eyes that are red may also have swollen or puffy eyelids
Burning eyes — An allergy can sometimes cause a burning sensation within the eyes
Blurry vision — some allergies can temporarily cause blurry vision
Light sensitivity — an allergy can make your eyes more sensitive to bright light.
Treatment for Eye Allergies
Our eye doctors can help diagnose eye allergies with a comprehensive exam. Once we identify the allergen, we can provide treatment that is suited for your specific condition. In addition to recommending either OTC or prescription eye drops, we may also provide the following:
- Prescribe oral medications that may help to alleviate allergy symptoms
- Provide allergy shots for persistent and severe allergies. Allergy shots slowly introduce) small amounts of the identified allergen to your system, which reduces your immune system’s sensitivity and reaction to the allergen
- Guidance on how to avoid allergens to mitigate your exposure to the allergen. This may include preventive measures like using sing an air purifier, wearing sunglasses outdoors, and vesting us for follow-up care
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If eye allergies are impacting your daily life, let our team at Eye Doctors of Arizona in Phoenix and Shea Park, AZ, help. After evaluating your eyes, we can develop a customized treatment plan that will eliminate your symptoms and allow you to enjoy activities without being hindered. To schedule your appointment, contact us at (602) 257-8270 today.