Eye Allergy

What Are Eye Allergies?

Eye allergies or allergic conjunctivitis occur when pollen from trees or weeds blooming in the spring and fall irritates the eyes (seasonal allergies). People with eye allergies tend to experience puffiness, itchiness, burning, and increased sensitivity to light. 


Unlike other forms of conjunctivitis, eye allergies are not contagious. However, people with eye allergies often also suffer from nasal allergies, which can lead to symptoms like an itchy, stuffy nose and sneezing.

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Symptoms of Eye Allergy

Eye allergies can trigger uncomfortable symptoms that affect your daily life, and recognizing these signs is key to taking action. Common eye allergy symptoms include:


  • Itchy eyes or a persistent urge to rub or scratch the eyes
  • Redness, bloodshot, or irritated eyes due to inflammation
  • Watery eyes caused by an allergic reaction
  • Swollen eyelids or puffiness around the eyes due to inflammation
  • Burning sensation or discomfort in the eyes
  • Blurry vision or temporarily hazy in more severe cases


While you can’t completely prevent allergic conjunctivitis, you can reduce its frequency and severity by avoiding allergens, maintaining good hygiene, and following eye irritation treatments.

What are the Causes of  Eye Allergy?

Common eye allergens can lead to itching, redness, and watery eyes. Identifying these allergens helps determine the type of eye allergy treatment that works best for you. Some of these allergens include:


  • Pet dander
  • Dust
  • Pollen
  • Smoke
  • Fragrances
  • Certain foods

Eye Allergy Treatment and Diagnosis

Assessing eye allergies involves these steps:


Physical Exam: Your physician will examine your eyes. Your care team will also check the frequency of your allergy symptoms to rule out infections or other conditions.


Allergy Testing:   You might be required to undergo skin or blood tests to identify specific allergens causing your symptoms. These tests help pinpoint whether your eye irritation is linked to allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust.


Before undergoing eye allergy testing, take these essential steps to ensure a smooth experience:


  1. Please complete and submit the forms below at least 48 hours before your scheduled visit.
  2. Make sure to bring your identification and health insurance card to each visit.
  3. If you have your medical records, please take them with you. Our office can request them using the Medical Release Form if unavailable.
  4. Bring all medications you are taking, including asthma devices (like spacers and peak flow meters), epinephrine pens, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
  5. Stop taking over-the-counter allergy medications at least five to seven days before the test, as these can interfere with the results.


How Is Allergic Conjunctivitis or Eye Allergy Treated?


The duration of allergic conjunctivitis depends on various factors, such as the severity of the allergy and the effectiveness of the treatment. Mild cases may resolve independently within a few days, while more severe cases may need several weeks of treatment. 


Several treatment options for allergic conjunctivitis include:


  • Over-the-counter medications
  • Antihistamine drugs
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs


In severe cases, your allergist may recommend immunotherapy or allergy shots. 

Eye Allergy FAQs

  • How can I tell the difference between dry eyes and an eye allergy?

    Dry eyes and eye allergies share similar symptoms like watery eyes, itchiness, and redness of the eyes. 


    The main difference is that dry eyes usually feel worse in dry or windy conditions and may feel better after blinking or using eye drops. Eye allergies are often accompanied by swelling, especially during allergy season or when you’re around pollen, dust, or pets.


    It’s important to consult a specialist if your eye allergy symptoms escalate. 

  • What is a severe eye allergy reaction?

    A key symptom of a severe reaction is when your eyelids are swollen shut (or nearly shut). In a worst-case scenario, you may observe blisters (clear fluid sacs) on the whites of your eyes. In these cases, we strongly recommend you contact your doctor right away.

  • What’s the difference between an eye allergy and pink eye?

    An eye allergy is not contagious, while pink eye (also known as conjunctivitis) is a viral infection. While they share similar symptoms, such as redness in the eyes or discomfort, eye allergies are typically accompanied by other common allergy symptoms. 


    Meanwhile, pink eye typically starts in one eye before spreading to the other. Additionally, it’s often accompanied by thick yellow or green discharge and crusty eyelids. 


    If you have discharge or worsening pain, see a doctor to get the right care.

  • Do over-the-counter eye drops help eye allergies?

    While the usual over-the-counter eye drops can help relieve discomfort, the most effective eye irritation treatment can only be prescribed by a specialist. There are prescription eye drops specifically made to treat eye allergies. 


    Our allergist at Premier Allergy TX can help you with the correct prescription if symptoms persist.

  • When should I see an allergist for eye allergies?

    These are the key symptoms you should look out for:


    • When over-the-counter medicine or eye drops do not help relieve symptoms
    • When your vision has been affected (blurriness or loss of vision)
    • When your eyelids or the skin around your eyes are swollen and/or red
    • When you are experiencing severe or worsening eye pain 

    We highly recommend consulting an eye allergist to assist with your treatment.

Receive Expert Eye Allergy Care

Take control of your eye allergy symptoms and protect your quality of life. Schedule a consultation at Premier Allergy TX today. Our specialists are here to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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