4 Common Eye Allergies to Be Aware of

There’s nothing worse than dealing with red and itchy eyes as a result of exposure to allergens. Allergic reactions can occur for a variety of different reasons and the redness comes from when your cells release histamine that causes the blood vessels in your eyes to leak. These eye allergies are also known as allergic conjunctivitis and are more common than you might think.

The best way to deal with eye allergies is to learn about some of the most common allergens so that you can avoid them at all costs. That’s why we’ve put together a brief list of 4 common eye allergies to be aware of below in order to lend a helping hand. If you are dealing with eye allergies or have any questions about your eye health, schedule an exam with AV Eyecare today.

Eye Allergy #1 – Pollen

Every spring, people that deal with eye allergies prepare for the worst as pollen is released from plants all around. Some of the symptoms of exposure to this common eye allergen include watery eyes, red eyes, and a burning sensation. The good news is that this allergen only sticks around for a few months each year, which means relief is always close by. The best way to avoid pollen is to check pollen counts before you head outside each day. If the pollen levels are high, it’s best to avoid spending a lot of time outdoors.

Eye Allergy #2 – Smoke

Another common eye allergy that affects many people is when their eyes are exposed to smoke. This can be cigarette smoke or other types of smoke as well. The best way to avoid this eye allergy is to stay away from smokers. Investing in a good set of lubricating eye drops is another way to find relief from this common eye allergy. Keep in mind that most eye allergies are made worse if you wear contacts and are exposed to an allergen, so take your contacts out if you are dealing with allergy symptoms or have been exposed to allergens like smoke.

Eye Allergy #3 – Pet Dander

The leading cause of pet-related eye irritation is pet dander. This is essentially dead skin cells from a pet that comes into contact with your eyes. Your eyes will usually become itchy, red, and watery if you are in a room with pets that are emitting pet dander. It’s best to avoid contact with pets if you know you are allergic to pet dander, as the symptoms can be quite uncomfortable.

Eye Allergy #4 – Dust

Any time small particles of dust make their way into your eyes, you will likely be dealing with allergic symptoms. That’s why it’s important to keep your living area dust-free and regularly clean so that you can avoid these allergens. You should also regularly wash your sheets, as they are known to spread dust while you are sleeping on them.

We hope this article has helped you learn some of the common eye allergies to look out for. Remember to reach out to AV Eyecare if you are dealing with eye allergies and require professional assistance.