What is Eye Allergy? What are the symptoms?

Eye allergy is an allergic reaction that affects the eyes. When the eyes are exposed to harmful substances or allergens in the air, the immune system recognizes these substances as foreign substances and develops a defense mechanism against them. This defense mechanism causes symptoms such as itching, watering, redness and swelling in the eyes. Eye allergy is a disorder that can occur for many different reasons, and these reasons include; Factors such as pollens, dust mites, pet dander, mold and some food allergens may be involved.

Eye allergies can be treated with medications such as antihistamines and eye drops aimed at relieving symptoms, as well as some lifestyle changes. Although allergy is usually not a serious condition, symptoms that persist for a long time may be useful to take seriously and consult a doctor.

What is Eye Allergy?

Eye allergy is a condition in which extreme sensitivity develops to foreign substances (allergens) that come into contact with the eyes. Allergens can be of many different types, such as pollen, house dust, animal dander or mould. Symptoms of eye allergy may include itchy, watery, red or swollen eyes, dryness or irritation of the skin around the eyes, and a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes. Some people may experience visual disturbances due to allergic reactions in the eyes.

Eye allergies usually occur seasonally and are more common, especially in the spring months when pollen is concentrated in the air. However, if you are allergic to persistent indoor allergens such as house dust and animal dander, eye allergies can be triggered throughout the year. Eye allergies, in addition to eye symptoms, can also cause allergic reactions such as sneezing and itching in some people. Eye allergy is an easily treatable condition, and a variety of medications are available to relieve symptoms. One of the best ways to protect yourself from allergies is to stay away from allergens as much as possible.

What are the Symptoms of Eye Allergy?

Eye allergy symptoms usually appear shortly after contact with the allergen, and the symptoms may quickly ease or disappear after moving away from the allergen source. In some people, this may last longer and require treatment. Common eye allergy symptoms can be listed as follows:

• Itching: People with eye allergies may experience intense itching in the eyelids and eyes.
• Watering: Watering, watering and tearing in the eyes. Problems such as constantly wet eyes may occur.
• Redness: Redness, swelling and sensitivity may occur in the eyes.
• Irritation around the eyes: Eye allergy may cause irritation, redness and itching in the skin around the eyes. .
• Blurred vision: Some people may experience blurred vision due to allergic reactions in their eyes.
• Burning and stinging: Allergy may cause discomfort such as burning and stinging in the eyes.
< li>Swelling in the eyelids: Swelling and a feeling of bloating may occur in the eyelids.

What are the Causes of Eye Allergy?

Eye allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts as a result of the eyes coming into contact with an allergen. Eye allergy symptoms can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as redness, itching, watering, swelling and tenderness of the eyes. Some of the causes of allergies are as follows:

• Pollen: Pollen from flowers spreads in the air and some people may experience allergic reactions when these pollens enter their eyes.
• House dust mites: Small house dust mites, It can be found in bedding, carpets, curtains, furniture and even pet hair. Eye allergies may be more common in people who are sensitive to house dust.
• Mold: Mold fungi that grow in humid places can cause allergic reactions, especially in hot and humid weather.
• Animal dander: Cat. Hair of dogs, birds and other pets can cause eye allergies.
• Perfume, cosmetics and other chemicals: Allergic reactions may occur due to perfumes, cosmetics and other chemicals coming into contact with the eyes.
• Foreign body: Foreign objects entering the eye are another factor that causes sudden allergic reactions.
• Some eye diseases: One of the important causes of eye allergies are various eye diseases. Some of these may include giant papillary conjunctivitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, atopic conjunctivitis, and seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.

  How to Diagnose Eye Allergy?

  The diagnosis of eye allergy can be made by ophthalmologists after the evaluation of the symptoms, physical examination and allergy tests. During a physical exam, doctors examine the eyes for signs of an allergic reaction. The inner lining of the eyelids can be examined with a microscopic instrument called a slit lamp, and dilated blood vessels and swelling can be observed.

  A skin test or blood test can be used to determine whether the body reacts to certain allergens. In skin testing, a small amount of allergen is injected under the skin and the skin response is then observed. In the blood test, antibody levels in the blood are measured and it is determined whether it reacts to certain allergens. In some cases, eye symptoms may be linked to other eye diseases, so to make a correct diagnosis, it is important to see a specialist when symptoms that may indicate allergies are observed.

  How to Treat Eye Allergy?

  Once an eye allergy diagnosis is made, doctors can apply a number of treatment methods to their patients to relieve symptoms and control future symptoms. Eye allergy treatment can generally be carried out as follows.

  • Wearing sunglasses: You can protect your eyes from allergens and sun sensitivity by wearing sunglasses. Glasses can reduce the amount of pollen, dust and other allergens hitting your eyes and protect your eyes from the harmful effects of sunlight.
  • Use of antihistamines: Antihistamines are medications used to reduce allergy symptoms. Antihistamine drugs used with the recommendation of a doctor can alleviate the allergy condition.
  • Use of steroid drops or medication: Doctors can create a treatment plan by recommending eye drops or oral steroid medications to reduce symptoms.
  • Cold compresses: Cold. Compresses can help improve eye allergy symptoms by reducing eye puffiness.

  What are the Complications of Eye Allergy?

  Although allergy is not usually a serious condition, the symptoms can cause some complications. Possible complications may include:

  • Infection that may affect vision
  • Eye pain
  • Feeling like something is stuck in the eye
  • Blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

  These complications may generally occur when eye allergies are severe and long-lasting.

  Precautions to Take Against Eye Allergy?

  One of the best precautions to be taken against eye allergies is to minimize allergen exposure. Eye allergies are a condition that can be controlled by taking precautions. By applying recommended methods to reduce the severity of symptoms, eyes can be made comfortable and allergic reactions can be prevented. Some recommended practices to prevent eye allergies are as follows:

  • Avoiding allergens: The most important cause of eye allergy symptoms may be the body's contact with a certain allergenic substance. Therefore, symptoms can be prevented by reducing exposure to allergens. For example, people with pollen allergies can reduce the time they spend outdoors during pollen season or take precautions such as wearing a mask when outside.
  • Keeping eyes clean: Keeping eyes clean can reduce allergic reactions. A suitable eye shampoo can be used to clean the eyes.
  • Cleaning contact lenses regularly: If contact lenses are used, the lenses need to be cleaned and replaced regularly. Avoiding dirty or old contact lenses can prevent allergies.
  • Not sleeping with eye make-up: Leaving the materials used in eye make-up on the skin for a long time can lead to allergic reactions, especially in the eyes. Therefore, doing a good make-up removal, especially before going to bed, can prevent the risk of allergies.
  
  Tarih: 18/05/2023