Eye Allergy
By Carol A. Jones, RN, AE-C

Millions of Americans suffer from the symptoms of eye allergy. Eye allergies are common and may be very disabling. This common condition is called allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis may occur alone or along with nasal allergy symptoms such as sneezing and stuffy nose. People who are more likely to develop an eye allergy develop symptoms when their eye comes in contact with an allergen. This is an allergic reaction, not just getting dust or something else in the eye. An allergen is a foreign substance in the air that causes or triggers (sets off) an abnormal reaction in the eye. The allergic reaction releases chemicals, such as histamine, and causes the following symptoms--usually in both eyes:

• Itching (most common symptom)
• Redness
• Swelling
• Tearing

What allergens trigger eye allergy?
Allergens causing these symptoms are present indoors and outdoors. You may be allergic to either type. The most common outdoor allergens (called seasonal) are: grass, trees and weeds. They are the most common cause of eye allergies. The most common indoor allergens (called perennial) are: pet hair or dander, dust mites and molds.

How do we treat the allergic eye?

1. The first treatment is environmental control

Seasonal eye allergies (outdoors)

• Stay indoors when pollen and mold counts are highest
• Shower and shampoo after playing or working outside
• If possible keep car and house windows closed using air conditioning
  
  Perennial eye allergies (indoors)
  
• Keep furry pets out of the bedroom and out of the house if possible
• Cover pillows and mattresses with airtight covers
• Wash bedding and stuffed toys weekly in hot water (130 degrees)
• Check areas in the home for mold and treat with fungicide or water and bleach solution.
• Keep humidity in home below 50%

2. Other things you can do:

• Cold compresses to eyes help reduce swelling
• Don't rub eyes as this can release more chemicals and cause more itching
• Wash hands frequently
• Avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms are gone

3. Medication Treatment:

• A prescription for topical antihistamines and/or mast cell stabilizers is the most effective. These medications are applied directly to the eye. They stop the release of the chemicals that cause symptoms.
• Over-the-counter antihistamine may relieve itching, but in some people it may dry the eyes and cause more itching
• Over-the-counter artificial tear drops dilute the allergens and may relieve itching
• Refrigerated eye medications are more soothing
• Apply eye drops into the space created when lower lid is pulled down. Or apply drops near the inner corner of the eye.

Always consult your healthcare provider (doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant) to make sure that the itchy eye is caused by an allergy. There are other diseases of the eye, so you will want to make sure you are receiving the proper treatment. If the itchy, red, watery eyes continue after you try all the other actions listed above, it may be time to consult an allergist/immunologist. The allergist/immunologist may recommend allergy shots. This is a process that gradually helps your body build up a normal protection against the allergens that are causing your eye symptoms.

This feature was edited by Stuart A. Friedman, MD, FAAAAI, AAAAI Patients & Consumers Web Editor on 3/18/04.