Have Eye Allergies? Seek Treatment from Our Optometrist in Virginia Beach, VA

Most people think allergies only happen to the skin and nose. For the most part, it is true, but some allergies can affect the eyes. Eye allergies are prevalent in spring and autumn, and can make your eyes watery or itchy or feel swollen and burning.

Fortunately, the same self-help treatments and strategies that relieve symptoms of nasal allergies also work well for eye allergies. However, it is crucial to visit an optometrist who can help you determine whether you have an eye allergy or another eye problem. If you are around the Virginia Beach, VA, area, make an appointment with us at Atlantic Eyecare. We can help you find a solution that works best for your eye allergies.

What Are Eye Allergies?

Like all the other allergies, eye allergies occur when the body overreacts to an irritant. The body tends to react to various harmless substances like pet dander, pollen, mold, and dust mite. Some people can be affected by smoke, perfumes, and even certain medicines.

The body's immune system makes antibodies that trigger the eyes to produce histamine, which is a chemical that causes inflammation and swelling, and other substances. As a result, the eyes become itchy and can look watery.  Primary irritants include:

•           Pollen from trees, weeds, and grasses

•           Dust mites

•           Pet dander

•           Makeup and other powdery chemicals

•           Mold

When to See an Optometrist

It is always a good idea to seek help from an optometrist who can diagnose your eye allergy and prescribe treatment options. If you have symptoms of soreness in the eyes, swollen eyelids, pain in one or both eyes, pink or red eyes, and constant itchiness, it is time to schedule an appointment with our optometrist.

Management and Treatment

Our optometrist may recommend various forms of treatment and ways to manage living around eye irritants. The best way to deal with eye allergies is by avoiding triggers in your environment, whether outdoors or indoors. Always:

•           Wash hands after petting an animal

•           Wear glasses and sunglasses when outdoors

•           Keep windows close during pollen seasons

•           Use mite-proof bed sheets and covers during high pollen seasons

For more severe cases, we will prescribe antihistamines or anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce the eye allergy symptoms and the frequency of them.

Contact Us Today

Visit us at Atlantic Eyecare in Virginia Beach, VA, today for all your allergy problems. We will be happy to help you find the relief that you need for your eye allergies. Contact us today at (757) 340-7070 to make an appointment.